In the know

Last chance to have your say on proposed police merger plans!

It’s the last chance to have your say on whether you agree with plans to merge Surrey Police with its neighbouring forces!

Under Government proposals – Surrey Police could disappear and become part of a larger south-east ‘mega force’.

Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend is urging the county’s residents to let her know what they think by filling in her brief survey.

But you’ll need to be quick – the survey closes at midnight on Monday (17 August) 

It can be found here: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/mergers/

Under plans for police reform announced in January, the Government intends to scrap the current 43 force system in England and Wales and create larger regional forces in their place.

It would likely mean Surrey Police will be merged with neighbouring areas to create a ‘mega force’ which could also include Sussex, Thames Valley, Kent and Hampshire.

Lisa said: “I would urge anyone who lives in Surrey and is interested in the future of policing in our county to fill in my survey and make sure their voice is heard.

“Whether you agree with the plans or not – this is a really important decision and I will be sharing the results of this survey with those planning these mergers.

“Police reform is 100% needed but I don’t believe a regional ‘mega force’ is the answer. We are the safest county in the region with no major city and I do not want to see our precious police resources diverted away from communities in Surrey.

“I’ve been clear in my views but I know not everyone will agree. That’s why I’m asking everyone to fill in the survey and have your say.”