Dyfed-Powys Police to close 13 police buildings

Dyfed-Powys Police wants to close 13 buildings to save £13m by 2014.

The force said the buildings are used by officers but not generally visited by the public.

None will close until alternative arrangements have been put in place.

Chief Constable Ian Arundale said the fact new recruits are being taken on demonstrates the force's commitment to 'front line policing'.

"The recruitment of 39 new police officers and special constables is a significant commitment to the communities we serve," he said.

"The public understand that it is police officers who deliver a service not buildings."

He said that by closing sites "deemed no longer fit for purpose we aim to avoid or minimise job losses and cuts to front line resources."

Despite the closures, the chief constable said other options were being considered to "ensure we maintain a visible police presence" in the areas affected.

"For instance, in some communities that could be co-locating with other organisations or in others we will explore the possibility of providing mobile police stations," he said.

Delyth Humfryes, Chair of Dyfed Powys Police Authority, said the closures will not "diminish the service to the public and in many cases it will improve the service we offer the public".