Paul Kohler MP calls for town centre police teams
Despite growing concerns around crime and anti-social behaviour, particularly in busy areas, local policing teams have been quietly eroded. Wimbledon no longer has a dedicated town centre police team, and local neighbourhood officers are now stretched thin across larger areas with fewer resources.
The campaign comes amid a national crisis in policing, with the Metropolitan Police alone facing a £130 million funding shortfall. The Met’s Commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, has warned the Prime Minister that current funding levels risk “far-reaching consequences” for policing and public safety.
As well as restoring dedicated town centre police teams, Paul spoke in Parliament about the need for town centre night time safety street stalls.
These measures aim to re-establish a visible police presence on local high streets, reduce anti-social behaviour and retail crime, and ensure residents feel safe to shop, work and socialise in their communities, both day and night.
The petition is now live, and residents are urged to show their support by signing and sharing it.
ENDS
Further reading:
https://www.mertonlibdems.org.uk/our-campaigns/dedicated-town-centre-police-teams
Delivering the Policing Pledge - Metropolitan Police Service
Police chiefs and government watchdogs write to PM to warn over funding cuts - LBC