MP Jon Cruddas warned today that plans to shut police stations could leave Barking and Dagenham open to increased levels of crime.
The Labour MP for Dagenham and Rainham spoke out after the Met unveiled proposals to shut Dagenham, Marks Gate and Barking police stations as part of a £500million cost-cutting drive.
The London borough would be left with the out-of-town £18m police base at Fresh Wharf in Highbridge Road, Barking, and a police annexe at Barking Learning Centre on the Town Square.
Supt Mike Hamer acknowledged there was “genuine concern” about the plans but the Met stressed police numbers would increase from 426 in 2011 to 493 in 2015 in Barking and Dagenham.
However, Mr Cruddas told the Post: “I am extremely concerned about the recent announcements.
“The closures will leave much of the borough open to increased levels of crime. The only police station in the borough will be at the far end of Barking.
“I will ensure that local residents have their say in this consultation and make sure it is not a simple fait accompli.”
The public consultation is to include a public meeting and is scheduled to end on March 6.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here