First it was the threat of closure of the much-loved Guildhall Walk healthcare centre. Now it is another essential public service at risk in the heart of our city: Portsmouth Central Police Station.

The police are looking at closing the station in Charles Dickens ward to make way for a new investigation centre outside of Portsmouth, possibly in Havant. If this happens, there will be no public police station left in the whole of Portsmouth after several closures in recent years.

At a time when crime in the city has increased, we are concerned about the impact this proposal will have on the people of Portsmouth, the lack of police visibility in our communities, the feelings of safety and security in our city and the ability of residents to report crime and disorder face-to-face.

We urge decision-makers at the Constabulary to reconsider the proposals to keep the station open and a police presence in the heart of Portsmouth.

Stephen Morgan and Cllr Yahiya Chowdhury

Other community campaigns and information

Show your support: download a poster for your window