Sub-standard access at East Grinstead's new police base has been raised by the town's MP, Mims Davies, on a visit with Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner, Katy Bourne OBE.
The Member of Parliament raised her concerns over lack of front desk response, limited hours of operation, poor signage and lack of visibility.
Sussex Police spent £180k on establishing its new site for the town at Chequer Mead, while East Grinstead Town Council spent a similar amount to relocate police services from the old building.
The front desk should be open Monday to Friday from 10am to 2pn although is currently limited to Tuesdays and Thursdays because of staff shortages. However, police officers are at the station from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm, even though the front desk is not manned. Police are confident they could reach any incident within minutes if the public arrived and operated the emergency alarm.
The front desk is operated by facilities staff rather than members of the Neighbourhood Police Team or PCSOs who are based in the building.
The county's Police & Crime Commissioner, Katy Bourne OBE, says she will investigate the issues, having previously agreed the suite must be made to work before considering a new police hub in the town centre.
Mims Davies MP said of the inadequate police provision in East Grinstead:
“It was really useful visiting the Chequer Mead Police Hub in East Grinstead alongside our Police and Crime Commissioner, Katy Bourne.
"A lot of people have shared with me their concern for lack of policing, and how they weren't even aware this hub is here. It was suggested during the meeting that the site could be re-launched and an Open Day event take place with better staffing, and signage in particular, so residents know it is here for them if they need it.
"I also shared that I'll be putting up signage in my constituency office in East Grinstead as to when the hub is open to ensure more advertisement. It was also agreed that town councillors will visit the site to find out more. I know policing is a huge issue for residents of East Grinstead, and beyond, and I'd like to reassure residents that I am aware of the issues, and am on the case of increasing police presence.
Katy Bourne OBE (left) is pictured with Mims Davies MP at the new East Grinstead police counter
