Express & Star

MP steps up campaign to keep Dudley Police Station open to public

An MP has stepped up his campaign against plans to close Dudley Police Station to the public.

Published

More than 1,000 people have already signed a petition launched by Dudley North MP Ian Austin.

Now he has raised the issue at the Home Affairs Committee and secured a meeting with either Policing Minister Mike Penning or Home Secretary Theresa May.

Mr Austin said there was 'huge opposition' to the plans.

Under the proposal by West Midlands Police, the front counters at the stations in Halesowen and Stourbridge will also shut.

While opening hours will also be reduced at Brierley Hill .

West Midlands Police says the proposals to shut front counters follow an independent review, which shows the majority of the public no longer visit stations and instead make phone calls, use the internet or social media to contact officers.

But the plans have been met with anger and disappointment from councillors and unions as well as several Black Country MPs.

In total, 27 front offices across the West Midlands will close with more than 90 of the 170 jobs at risk.

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