Fight to save police station from closure stepped up

Wednesfield Police Station in Alfred Squire Road is due to shut in autumn 2025.

Although the police station does not have a public desk, it’s been used by officers and civilian staff to maintain a regular presence in the village.

But Tory MP Jane Stevenson and local Labour councillor Phil Bateman say there must be a re-think after figures showed a 10 per cent increase in local crime.

At a community meeting between residents and community officers in Ashmore Park this week, residents vented their frustation about their experiences of low-level crime.

More than 20 people attended the meeting, while local police explained the actions they had been taking. However it emerged the station’s closure was still very much on the cards.

Ward councillor Phil Bateman said this sent out the wrong message to the community.

“West Midlands Police make the contrary point that the resources they have been left with by the government will not allow it. We need to take this fight right to the top.

“We as councillors are constantly making the point that the connection between the police and the public is being stretched.

“Also, the fact that there are just four officers to look after Wednesfield North and South – with Bentley Bridge – is unfair on those blue uniforms.”

MP Jane Stevenson said: “I am pushing for a smaller police hub to remain in Wednesfield. Local people overwhelmingly want a more visible police presence, and I hope this hub will be considered,

“I also want reassurance that the old building will not sit empty for years but will be redeveloped for office space and/or housing.”

The police station closure is part of a major cash-saving strategy announced by the Chief Superintendent and approved by West Midlands Police Crime Commissioner (PCC) Simon Foster.

Mr Foster is now due to visit the area to meet with residents and councillors and take part in a walkabout to see the issues being raised for himself, following an invitation from Cllr Bateman.

Announcing wide-ranging cuts, at the time, the PCC said the force faced a £24m repair bill for its police stations and other property, prompting the need for closures.

He said: “Since 2010 West Midlands Police has lost £175 million, and even after recent and planned increases in officer numbers, we will still be missing 1,000 officers compared to a decade ago.

West Midlands Police has been contacted for a statement.