THE doors of the enquiry office at Williton Police Station will be closed to the public from Saturday March 10.

A review of demand has shown that low numbers of people use the service – an average of 30 visitors per month attend the enquiry office and it rarely has any visitors on Saturdays.

Local neighbourhood and response teams will remain in the community and will continue to operate from the existing police station in Priest Street. 

The police are in final discussions with West Somerset Council with a view to co-locating policing teams in West Somerset House in the future.

Superintendent Mike Prior said: “We are committed to local policing and see real value in keeping local officers and PCSOs located close to their communities. We want them to be visible and accessible to local people.

“However, we do have to accept that, with the financial constraints we face, it is not cost effective to continue to provide an enquiry office service from Williton based on the low usage.

“If someone wants to contact us, Minehead enquiry office continues to be open to the public and is the closest option.  Alternatively, the public can contact us online or by calling 101 for non-emergencies.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “I want local residents to be reassured that the changes to Williton police station will not affect the level of policing service you have a right to expect. 

“As your PCC, it is my role to ensure the policing service you pay for is value for money. 

“Local people tell me how important their neighbourhood policing teams are and I know you would want your money invested in the people who are there to keep you safe, instead of paying for an enquiry office that on some days isn’t even used. 

“Local people, should they need, can also always visit the enquiry office in Minehead.”

The police enquiry office in Minehead is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm. There are also offices in Taunton and Bridgwater.