Leader urges support for rural policing

Councillor Neil Bannister (pictured), Leader of Harborough District Council, has sent a letter, on behalf of the Council, to Lord Willy Bach the Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicestershire.

The letter acknowledges the pressure on all public services to make significant savings and seek new revenue streams, but goes on to stress the need for “effective resourcing for rural policing”.

Cllr Bannister said an increased police presence at Market Harborough police station, with the knock-on effect of increased police visibility, had been greatly welcomed and reflected the need to respond effectively and rapidly to crimes wherever they occur – including the Harborough district area. But he said the importance of rural policing should not be forgotten.

Cllr Bannister said in the letter: “I’m sure you agree that effective resourcing for rural policing is a priority for Harborough District. Although the pressures for reductions are strong we would like to seek your support at this stage to ensure rural crime and police visibility in rural areas is a priority.”

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) recently held a public consultation on proposals to increase its share of the Council Tax bill by £1 a month to help address urgent crime threats across the county and increase public safety.