Police in Bishops Castle to look at relocating to a new base (From Ludlow Advertiser)

Police in Bishops Castle to look at relocating to a new base

8:00am Friday 22nd February 2013 in News By Adrian Kibbler

THE strongest indication so far about the future development of policing in south Shropshire has come from Bishops Castle.

There the idea of closing the local police station is being floated, with officers moving into space in a local community centre.

It comes as West Mercia Police looks for ways to slash £30 million from its budget.

The force has already indicated every station in the force area is being looked at. Chiefs have said some stations will have to close and staffing levels including front line officers will be cut.

Bill Longmore, pictured, Police and Crime Commissioner, visited Bishops Castle and saw Enterprise House, which is being earmarked as a potential new home for the local police.

“There is a remarkable and positive c h a n g e , ”

said Peter P h i l l i p s , chairman of Enter prise South West Shropshire.

“The old police authority treated us with some disdain and indeed refused to come over and discuss the matter despite it being of great importance to the communities.

“Clearly Bill is very hands on, and it’s great to have someone so local in place.”

The idea has also received the thumbs-up from Charlotte Barnes who represents Bishops Castle on Shropshire Council.

“The Police Station is seldom open to the public,”

she said.

“ Visitors can only use the outside phone through to the Police switchboard.

“Enterprise House on the other hand is open five and a half days a week including two evenings.

“The staff would provide a human contact for help and advice.

“The Board of Enterprise SW includes all the local councils plus independent members, and business people.

“It is unanimously in favour of the move.”

Sharing buildings with other organisations has been muted as one of the ways in which the Police hope to make savings.