Calls to reopen police station front desks in Northumberland

Fourteen stations and desks were permanently closed in 2021 under plans the force insisted would make services more cost-effective. However, the move proved controversial with local residents and prompted fears over the impact on the elderly.

This has led to persistent calls for the desks and stations to be reopened. In May, Tory councillor and cabinet member for communities at Northumberland County Council, Cllr Gordon Stewart, called on newly elected PCC Susan Dungworth to tackle the issue “as a matter of urgency”.

Now, five months down the line, the Prudhoe South councillor has reiterated his call for action.

Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Cllr Stewart said: “Dixon of Dock Green-style policing still has its place in this modern world.

“Recent national events have shown the need for closer face-to-face support and advice from the police in the communities they operate and serve. The population is growing and the world has moved on from the days of Dixon of Dock Green – but the public still needs to feel reassured that uniformed officers are not just available in their community, but are very much part of their community.

“Police desks were closed throughout Northumberland after a farce of a so-called consultation. The reason for the closures was given as the lack of public attending. That has always been disputed.

“I have raised these concerns with the previous and current PCC. It had been agreed that Northumberland County Council and the PCC will work together, but the time scales have not been given.

“The public is concerned the delays will continue and the reopening of desks will be put in the ‘too difficult’ file and forgotten about. It is right that online and telephone means of communication should be available for certain enquiries but many people are unable to use these or just want to chat face to face. This would be beneficial to the police and the community.”

Stations in Prudhoe, Ashington, Whitley Bay, Cramlington, North Shields, Blyth, Morpeth, Etal Lane, Byker, Whickham, Westgate College, Washington, Houghton, and Farringdon were closed. However, in March the force announced it would trial extended opening hours at three stations in Northumberland – Hexham, Berwick and Alnwick.

On the potential reopening of the front desks, a spokeswoman for the Office of Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner said: “Front desk trials are currently ongoing as Northumbria Police monitors usage throughout the year.

“The PCC would support the Chief Constable with any operational decisions around the opening of front desks if evidence suggests there is high enough demand – subject to finances.”