A recent survey reveals that a significant majority of residents in the Thames Valley region, which includes Milton Keynes, are against proposals to merge local police forces into larger, regional organisations.
Public opposition to merger plans
The consultation, initiated in June by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, Matthew Barber, sought public opinion following the release of the Government’s Police Reform White Paper. This white paper outlines potential changes to the structure of policing across England and Wales, including a reduction in the number of police forces.
More than 2,300 individuals from across the Thames Valley participated in the survey. The aim was to ensure that local voices were heard regarding reforms that could reshape the future of policing in the area.
When asked directly about their support for the government’s merger proposals, 75% of respondents indicated their opposition. This strong stance highlights public concern over the potential impacts of such changes on community safety and policing effectiveness.
Concerns about local accountability and policing
The survey also delved into the specific risks associated with creating larger, regional police forces. Residents frequently voiced concerns that such mergers could weaken the connection between the police and the communities they serve.
A notable finding was that 34% of those surveyed were not aware of the government’s plans to merge police forces prior to participating in the consultation. This suggests a gap in public awareness regarding significant proposed changes to local policing structures.
Matthew Barber stated that the survey results clearly demonstrate a lack of support for abolishing local police forces and merging them into larger entities. He emphasised that residents value local knowledge, accountability, and strong community relationships as essential components of effective policing.
He further commented that these proposed changes risk distancing policing from the public and undermining these vital connections. Mr. Barber has consistently argued that the primary challenge for policing lies in its funding, not its size.
He believes that reorganising force boundaries would incur substantial disruption and considerable costs, with no assurance of improved services for residents. The concerns raised by the public in the survey align with the points he put forward in his response to the government’s white paper.
There is a significant risk, he noted, that these reforms could diminish local accountability, make policing less responsive, and divert essential resources away from frontline services. This comes at a time when focus should be on crime prevention and community safety.
Mr. Barber expressed gratitude to the residents who participated and shared their views. He highlighted that the government had not directly solicited public opinion on these proposals, making it crucial for the perspectives of Thames Valley residents to be communicated.
He confirmed that these results would be shared with the government. The Police and Crime Commissioner intends to continue advocating for a policing model that is grounded in local communities, accountable to local people, and dedicated to delivering the best possible service.
Residents are still encouraged to share their ongoing views on local policing and crime by completing the crime survey available on the PCC website.
This story is based on reporting by MKFM. Read the original coverage: MKFM