PCC announces major step forward for policing in Petersfield

Contractors have begun work at the site of the new police station in Petersfield.

The former Barclays building on The Square will be transformed into a new police base with a front counter for the town as part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s pledge to bring policing back into the heart of communities.

The public will be able to come in and report a crime, get updates on a case or seek advice. The new police station is scheduled to open next year.

The Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones, said: “It is an important day for the people of Petersfield and for the future of policing for this town.

“As Commissioner, the people in Petersfield have told me they want their police force to be more visible and more accessible. I know officers and staff will welcome a new station, to work in the heart of the community, and to strengthen their commitment to deliver exceptional local policing.

“This is a landmark day for the community and demonstrates my promise to the public to open up the police service across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. I’m delighted work is starting on the building and I’m looking forward to watching it transform over the coming months.”

The Commissioner announced last September that she would reopen more police stations and front counters in Cowes, Portsmouth Central, Park Gate, Petersfield, Totton, Ryde, Yateley, Eastleigh, Cosham and Gosport.

Cowes, Portsmouth Central and Park Gate were all opened earlier this year.

Chief Constable Scott Chilton said: “I am pleased that work is beginning on the new police station in Petersfield. Being in the heart of our local communities is crucial, and having a new permanent base in Petersfield town centre is just the latest step in our plans.

“This will provide greater visibility and access for the residents that we serve, with a far better environment for our officers and staff to work from. This is all part of our mission to put victims first, pursue criminals, and engage more effectively with local people in this area of East Hampshire.”

Bringing policing to every community is the cornerstone of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s mandate to ensure Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are two of the safest counties to live, work and visit.

Pledging another 75 more police officers over the 12 months and the PCC’s flagship policy of named and contactable Local Bobbies for every community sit alongside opening up more police stations to further increase police visibility and ensure safer communities.