More patrols on the streets claims West Mercia Police officer
Controversial changes to the police service, which has seen stations across the West Mercia Police region close, have led to better policing on the streets, according to senior officers.
They told a public meeting last night that officers on the beat have more flexibility and spend less time doing paperwork.
Stations including those at Ironbridge, Albrighton, Whitchurch and Ellesmere are all closing as part of the changes, and many officers in Bridgnorth are being relocated to Telford.
But Sergeant Richard Bailey, based in Bridgnorth, said a policy of introducing 'safer neighbourhood teams' and patrol officers had brought about positive feedback.
He said: "The officers are now on patrol and not working on response – we're being told by the public they have never seen so many officers."
West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner Bill Longmore told the meeting he has already saved hundreds of thousands of pounds through changes made.
Mr Longmore said: "We may have inherited our staff but we've already cut the budget from £1.8million to £1.5million and we'll be making further savings in the future. All the money is now well spent and we ensure we get the best value possible. There have been big cuts but we have still saved money."
Mr Longmore said he hoped there would be no more reductions and any future cuts would be covered by extra funds in reserve.
