Dagenham Police Station Front Desk to Stay Open – But Not 24/7
In a surprise U-turn, Dagenham’s police front desk will remain open after initial plans to shut it down. Locals can now breathe a sigh of relief as the desk will operate from 10am to 10pm on weekdays and 9am to 7pm at weekends. The 24/7 service is off the table, but at least the station won’t close completely.
Met Police Slash Costs but Keep Key Frontline Services
This move is part of a wider cash-saving drive by the Metropolitan Police Service aiming to save a whopping £260 million. Other stations, including Forest Gate, Bethnal Green, Romford, and Ilford, will also see their hours slashed. Meanwhile, Barking’s front desk is still set to shut its doors by the end of the year.
Community Campaign Forces Police to Change Course
“This is a big win for our community and a vital step in keeping our residents safe,” said Councillor Dominic Twomey, leader of Barking and Dagenham Council. “It follows a strong campaign from our MPs, councillors, and local residents. We’ve made our voices heard and the hard work has paid off.”
Met Police Focus on Visible Policing Despite Cash Cuts
A Met Police spokesperson confirmed the force will still save £7 million despite keeping some front desks open. The priority remains frontline policing to tackle the £260 million funding shortfall.
Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist said: “The Met is having to shrink to live within its means. We are targeting resources on a narrower set of priorities to make London safer. Londoners want more visible and responsive policing on the streets – and that is what we will deliver. We have listened closely during public engagement and will keep more front counters open across the capital.”
The changes are expected to free up more than 2,900 hours of officer time every month, as 95% of crime reports now come online, by phone, or directly to officers on patrol.
“Decisions on front counters have been made carefully based on public demand, geography and feedback,” the Met added.
