Cllr Joe Tildesley argued that the closure of the station was “the number one issue” brought up by residents of the West Midlands town
Announcements from the local council to close Solihull Police station were first given in March 2018. The controversial plans included details in selling off a portion of the building as a part of broader budget cuts to save around £5million pounds.
The initiative was given the go-ahead by David Jamieson, Crime Commissioner of West Midlands Police. It was done on the basis that 100 officer jobs would be protected and the force would still hold a significant presence within the locality. There were suggestions to open new police offices within other neighbouring government buildings, such as NHS sites or the fire department.
However, since last year no sure plans have been made to move Solihull’s police desk elsewhere. The news has been responded to with widespread concerns from those living in the area. This is despite the fact the site was named “underused” and is known to be run-down and mainly empty.
Mr Jamieson commented: “After £145million cuts since 2010 and with the level of funding from government being squeezed year on year, the force must continue to find efficiencies to protect officer numbers.
“Crime is also changing and I need to ensure West Midlands Police has an estate that is equipped to help officers and staff respond to those crimes. Whilst the threats we face change, the public still need access to their police. That is why these proposals ensure that the current number of public contact offices will be maintained at current levels.”
The fact that the operation has been given the green light has been a shock for many. News of the closure has received backlash from many Borough MPs especially, as they have been vouching to save the building. Julian Knight, a Solihull MP and Dame Caroline Spelman, both began a 3.5K strong petition to fight for the survival of the station.
Cllr Tildesley also remarked that the recent pledge by new PM Boris Johnson to recruit 20,000 Police Officers strengthened the case to keep the station open. The intake would mean the site could become home to the working offices for many more constables.
“If there is an awful incident and a young lady is terribly abused and needs a place of safety, that’s what the police station is fundamentally all about” said the Cllr, further emphasising his argument in favour of keeping the station open.
Mr Jameison will soon be stepping down from his current position as Crime Commissioner, and it is reported that the station will close in late 2020.
By Manisha Bhanot
