A VOW to deliver ‘the best and most dynamic policing service possible’ has been made as part of a major review of West Mercia Police’s buildings.
And county residents can have their say on proposals to make the best and most efficient use of the estate with a public consultation which runs until July 11.
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion has taken the wraps off his new Estates Strategy which aims to support police by providing the most efficient and effective buildings infrastructure from which to serve its communities.
Among the targets to be delivered by 2030 is the disposal of Redditch’s current police station in favour of a new ‘blue light hub’ on Middle House Lane in the town to be shared with Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS).
Bromsgrove’s own hub, again shared with HWFRS, will be retained as will police stations in Droitwich, Malvern and Worcester.
Police stations in Evesham and Pershore will be kept but shared with another organisation while police in Wythall will be out of a new shared base.
Dines Green will lose its police base in favour of a mobile police station, a fate which will also befall the service in Rubery.
“When I consulted on my Safer West Mercia plan last year, the public told me they wanted their police to be visible and easy to access,” Mr Campion said.
“I took these views on board, to inform the development of my estates strategy, which sets out to achieve this.”
“As your elected custodian of public money for policing, getting my plans for the future infrastructure of West Mercia Police right is something I take very seriously.”
“This strategy plans to ensure the budget I have allocated to funding for estates and property this year, will give our communities the best and most dynamic policing services possible now and in future years.
“This includes working flexibly with partners, including councils, health and fire services, to create shared facilities which offer long-term best value.”
County residents can join those across West Mercia to take a look at the proposals and share their views with the commissioner, by completing a short online survey.
“I am now giving people a say in how policing properties and infrastructure are being re-shaped to improve the services you receive,” he said.
“If there is anything in this strategy you want to bring to my attention, then I am open to your views.”
Visit www.westmercia-pcc.gov.uk/estate-strategy by July 11 to make your voice heard.
