Reinstate police counter services, MP says

Chris Bloore MP said he was disappointed the new Redditch police station did not have a front counter

An MP has told the area's police and crime commissioner to "represent the views" of the public and reinstate front counter services at police stations.

Chris Bloore, Labour MP for Redditch, said there was a "clear view from the public" that it wanted to see a front counter service at the new station in Middle House Lane.

He said he and his constituents were left "disappointed" over the lack of a front counter when the new police and fire station opened in Redditch early this year.

But John Campion, West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), said introducing the counter service would cost about £90,000, which was "equivalent to funding two police officers".

In an open letter to the Redditch MP, the Conservative PCC said: "For those who prefer face-to-face engagement, meetings can be arranged with local officers at a time and place that suits them."

But Mr Bloore said there was "a big difference in arranging to have an appointment in three days and having the confidence to go and speak to someone and see a police officer".

"Having spoken to police officers past and present they do value having that ability to speak to the public face to face.," he added.

"I expect a PCC to represent the views and represent the wishes of the public."

'Broken funding model'

Mr Campion acknowledged if West Mercia Police's financial position was stronger, a front counter service "might be something" they could explore.

"The current funding landscape simply does not allow for it," he said.

"In West Mercia, only 54% of our budget comes from the Treasury, compared to 80% in neighbouring West Midlands - a clear indication of a broken funding model that has persisted across successive governments."

Mr Bloore said: "I will always understand the PCC wanting more money and I will support him on that in any attempt to get more money out of central government to support our policing operations but it's also important that the PCC reflects what the public wants from their officers and their police force."

John Campion said the current financial situation "simply does not allow for" a front counter service at the station

The Redditch MP also confirmed he had put forward a request to hold a debate in the House of Commons on the matter and admitted he had been "shocked" by the large response.

"I've had people all across the country approach me with concerns over the lack of counter services in their community and the impact that is having.

"I expect that debate to take place and I expect it to be widely attended."