Police stations in Waverley earmarked for closure

Surrey Police said the changes could be implemented over the next 18 months

A consultation has begun into plans to close four police stations in Waverley.

Surrey Police is proposing to close stations at Godalming, Cranleigh, Farnham and Haslemere as part of a county-wide review.

It said savings from 20 station closures across the county would enable the force to recruit up to 200 extra constables.

Insp Simon Dann said: "We are facing tough choices in the current economic climate.

'Alternative venues'

"But while many forces are cutting officer numbers, we are trying to avoid this and make savings on buildings instead."

Surrey Police said Cranleigh is home to three officers and five staff, and receives an average of four visitors a day.

Haslemere has seven officers and an average of eight callers a day, while Farnham receives an average of 16 visitors.

The force is looking for alternative venues for police to work from in the community

Consultation on the plans has already taken place in Reigate, Epsom, Mole Valley, Runnymede, Guildford, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath and Woking.