06 Apr For our children’s children
I do not propose anything I cannot achieve, unlike my opponents who make promises they are powerless to keep – like putting more ‘bobbies on the beat’. It sounds very attractive and equally desirable but it is an operational matter and therefore a decision solely for the Chief Constable.
I am planning much further into the future than the next four years. I want our children and grandchildren to live in a county that is safe and served by a good, able and well-resourced police service. That is why I have set aside £2 million to develop the Bamfurlong Patrol Centre on the M5/Golden Valley by pass intersection as a Blue Light Emergency Service Deployment Centre. With its proximity to the motorway network, it is an ideal location and if I am re-elected I will aim to build partnerships with other agencies to develop a centre that will be of strategic importance to our county.
Likewise, I am working with Cotswold District Council and the Ministry of Justice to release the police station in Cirencester for redevelopment with the former Magistrates’ Court, Forum car park and adjacent roads to support and enhance the economic future of the town. Agreement in principle has been reached on provision of a new town centre police station that will be fit for policing for the next 50 years
Also during my next term of office, I will explore with the Chief Fire Officer real estate options that may benefit both services and provide value for money.
All of the priorities in my Police and Crime Plan are aimed not only at making Gloucestershire a good place to live, work and visit but also about ensuring a society that is fair, just and compassionate.
