Concern over police numbers in Bridgnorth
Police ?officers currently operating in Bridgnorth could be based as far away as Telford, a councillor has claimed.
Bridgnorth Town Councillor Connie Baines said although the Bridgnorth police station had been saved from closure, no officers would be permanently based there once new policing measures were introduced.
A major shake-up of police stations across the county was announced this summer in a bid to save £20 million by 2015.
Under the plans Bridgnorth Police Station was thought to be safe, while eight other buildings across the county were earmarked for closure.
Councillor Connie Baines, speaking during last night's full Bridgnorth Town Council meeting, said: "There was an evening gathering of retired police officers in town last week where people were saying goodbye to Bridgnorth Police Station.
"We have been told there may be a sergeant, a police constable and two CSOs, but the public is being given the wrong information.
"Officers who currently work here will go to Telford each day to sign on to begin work.
"If they sign on at another police station they might not be sent back to Bridgnorth.
Councillor Baines said the Bridgnorth station was being maintained but with limitations.
She said: ""I would encourage people to come to the next local joint committee meeting in Alveley Village Hall."
The changes will see 11 patrol bases across West Mercia and 82 Safer Neighbourhood Teams.
Each team will have a named local police officer, supported by PCSOs, specials and volunteers.
Some communities considered to be in a Priority Policing Area will have access to extra resources.
The shake-up services were announced by Police and Crime Commissioner, Bill Longmore.
He will be the guest speaker at the next Bridgnorth, Worfield, Alveley and Claverley LJC meeting on October 16, at Alveley Village Hall.
