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You may have heard in the news that we are considering whether or not to close some front counters in police stations that are open to the public. We are also considering whether to keep some of the police stations.
This is not a done deal. Before any decisions are made the Constabulary and the Authority will consult with local people to find out what they think. However, we have always said there will be tough decisions to make as we try to find savings of nearly £42million and we believe that Lancashire residents would prefer us to protect our services rather than buildings.
The front counters that we are contemplating closing have a very low number of visitors over the year – just 19% of the total. We will also be careful to ensure that there are other options within a reasonable distance before deciding on the way forward.
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retiredblueliner from Wyre
Posted 40 weeks ago
Police buildings don't prevent crime or arrest criminals, neither do they prevent anti-social behaviour or identify the culprits!
Police buildings are a heavy burden on the police budget with daily running costs, routine maintenance, and major refurbishment from time to time!
For the above reasons I support a consultation period - BUT ONLY IF THE CONSULTATION IS GENUINE, which I doubt ........
IF IT ISN'T a 'done deal' to close the police stations already named, please tell the public of Lancashire, immediately, why police officers are advising us of the policing arrangements that will become effective when the police stations close? It isn't canteen gossip - it's written down in order that all police officers speak according to script. All we await is the date of change to be announced!
Reducing the number of locations for prisoner processing will result in queues forming at those locations remaining open. Will there be an increase in staffing levels to ensure a swift through-put at those locations? and, will additional facilities be made available for doctors and solicitors to examine and interview prisoners? Increased prisoner numbers at each remaining location is sure to increase waiting time for all concerned.
Whilst modern day communications have resulted in fewer people visiting a police station, an already reduced availability of the public desk has contributed greatly to the lower foot-fall. For instance, a resident wanting to see the local PC was told that an appointment was necessary and the person would have to join the queue at the local library. The suggested appointment was 4.30pm some 4 days later! This attitude of 'I'll make things as difficult as possible for you' further distances the police from the public .... before you close any police stations.
Also .............
Where will members of the public take 'found' property if there is no police station in the town?
Where will local officers start and finish their shifts, take any meal break, or go to the same place to complete any paperwork? Any additional travel to fulfil these functions will further reduce the police presence.
Savings have to be made but alienating the public, whose support you will always need, will be your downfall!
BettyBoo from Wyre
Posted 46 weeks ago
I have never been to a police station. If i want information i go to the website, if i need to speak to an officer i root out Simon my local bobby or i use the phone. I agree that you need to save money and i prefer coppers out and about rather than stuck in a police station. Can i suggest you close the ones without cells and invest the money in more police officers. That would be a win win situation to me!