Ringwood Police Station Closed to the Public

By ringwoodnews | Monday, February 20, 2012, 10:47

Hampshire Police has confirmed that the front office at Ringwood police station is to close to the public on March 30th this year.

You will see your local bobby on the beat - but you can't see them at the police station as of March 30th.

Following an in depth review conducted last year between January and October, the usage of front desks at various police stations across the county has been assesed, leading to a number of closures.

Hampshire Police say the closure is a "direct result of the current financial climate".

Sector Inspector Simon Tribe has been trying to reassure townsfolk saying, "Residents should be reassured that we are not leaving the town and will continue to operate from the station."

As part of the Safer Neighbourhood programme, officers from Ringwood police station will continue to control their beats, and will host public surgeries at the usual locations plus additional venues like the library and Sainsbury's.

The introduction of the 101 telephone number is for members of the public to use when they wish to contact their local police, report a crime, seek advice or ask to speak to a local officer. The 101 number does not however replace 999, which should be used in emergencies.

What do you think about the closure of Ringwood Police Station to the public?