At least 30 West Midlands Police stations to shut

Simon Foster said funding for force has been disadvantaged when it comes to police funding

A police force is to close at least 30 of its police stations.

West Midlands Police said there will still be 10 sites across the region where members of the public can speak to a police officer.

But some of the stations, including Balsall Green, Sutton Coldfield and Digbeth, will see its police team relocated and the buildings sold.

The force said it has to save £28m in 2023/24 and £21m in the next financial year.

A range of new or refurbished buildings will be brought into use and other sites, previously earmarked for closure, will remain open.

Dudley will get a new station at Castlegate Business Park where the public can attend. Tipton's station will remain open as will Quinton and Nechells stations in Birmingham for response teams.

In Coventry, the current city centre station will be relocated. The force said it will remain in the centre and continue to provide a place for the public to attend.

"This investment will ensure a police estate that is fit for the 21st century," West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said.

Digbeth Police station is one of the 30 stations which are set to be disposed of by the force

The changes to the police estate are said to support the new neighbourhood policing operating model, implemented by Chief Constable Craig Guildford.

It will ensure more neighbourhood officers are working in local communities to keep people, families, business and communities safe and secure, the force said.

West Midlands Police force need to save £21m for the next financial year

"Police stations are important, because they provide a reassuring and visible presence for communities," Mr Foster said.

"This plan will ensure the region retains as many as possible, whilst prioritising maintaining police officer numbers and managing a budget, that remains under severe pressure."

Training centres Cosford and Tally Ho are currently under review as well as stations Bell Green and Bournville Lane.

A full list of the closures and changes can be found here.