Ongoing work to get officers out of police stations and back on the streets through new technology was discussed at a lively public meeting in Burntwood.
Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis was invited to speak at the event on Monday (28 September) night by Burntwood Town Council.
He updated people on the roll-out of mobile technology which is helping free up an extra 250,000 hours of police time to be out on the beat a year which is the equivalent of an additional 100 officers on duty.
Residents and local councillors also raised concerns they had about issues including anti-social behaviour and dangerous parking.
Mr Ellis said: “I enjoyed a cracking meeting with Burntwood residents. There was good challenge and sensible debate. It was a thoroughly enjoyable 90 minutes.
“It was important to talk about the work we’re doing to get officers out of police stations and back onto the street through our major investment in new technology.”
Around 20 people attended the meeting at Burntwood Library in Chase Terrace.
Councillor Richard Mosson, Burntwood Town Council Leader, said: “On behalf of Burntwood Town Council, I would like to express our thanks to Mr Ellis for coming to Burntwood to talk to both councillors and concerned members of the public.
“We were all disappointed to hear about the closure of the police front desk in Chasetown earlier this year. However, we have received assurance from our Police and Crime Commissioner that police are to be far more visible within the town going forward. Greater police presence in key areas within the town should give residents greater reassurance and before any closure takes place Mr Ellis is actively looking for strategic posts within the town where residents can still contact and liaise with police officers – two potential buildings are the Old Mining College Centre and possibly the Fire Station.”
