Mike Cox's Gazette article for March 2008

3.30.00pm GMT Sat 15th Mar 2008

Over the last few years there has been a transformation in the way our communities are policed. The introduction of the Safer Neighbourhood Teams has brought back the old concept of the "Bobby on the Beat" and with varying degrees of success local sergeants and their teams are building knowledge and data on each local ward. This is good news.

Last year however there were a few changes which have seen a backward step to delivering high quality local policing.

Calls to 999 are dealt with through a centralised exchange which has led to frustration and delays in dealing with members of the public. Responses to serious incidents are not being dealt with appropriately or speedily enough.

Hillingdon's Police Patrol cars now operate out of just one hub in Hayes. Ruislip's station has ceased to be operational. This is leading to the north of the borough being known as a "patrol free zone". The traffic time delays and the additional problems in Hayes have had a detrimental affect on policing north of the A40. The local teams will do their best but faced with gangs of youths of 20 plus strong patrol back up is needed

We now have an asset management plan which will inevitably mean a further reduction in physical resources of the police such as police stations and a diminution in the service the public receive. If you want your say then write directly to the Police Commander in Hillingdon or alternatively write to me c/o the Civic Centre.