Little Dewchurch Parish Council has been asked to bring to your attention a message from Cllr Barry Durkin:
A three-month public consultation has been launched, by John Campion Police and Crime Commissioner for West Mercia. He is seeking community views on the government’s proposals to reduce the number of police forces across England and Wales. The government proposal is to significantly reduce the current 43 police forces to approximately 10 to 15 regional forces. These plans outlined in January 2026 aim to merge the forces into fewer, larger “mega-forces,” with reports suggesting a reduction. This is intended to:
- Improve strategic capacity and financial sustainability.
- Support consistent delivery of specialist functions.
- Reduce duplication and inefficiency.
As Chair of West Mercia Police and Crime Panel I would be grateful if you would promulgate the message from the Police and Crime Commissioner, to share the information and consultation within your community and local networks. I hope your parish residents will take part, so we can gather a true and representative picture of public feeling. The Commissioner has provided a link to the West Mercia Police website, which includes some Q&As on the subject to assist with any questions you or your constituents and colleagues may have.
The White Paper acknowledges that structural change would be phased and subject to further consultation. This would be part of the largest policing reform in decades. As chair of the West Mercia Police and Crime Panel I endorse the Commissioner’s request for consultation and urge that you inform your communities and networks to enable them to give their views to this extensive government proposal.
You can find further details via this link: