District Commander Chief Inspector Denise Morrissey has spoken out after Essex Police announced drastic changes this afternoon.

The cuts could see Brentwood police station close and up to 19 of 26 PCSO jobs in Brentwood and Epping Forest be cut.

Chief Inspector Morrissey said: "“Local policing remains at the heart of all we do in Essex. However, in the face of having to make unprecedented financial savings, it must change to be more effective and more efficient.

“Officers will continue to be locally based and accountable and will prioritise the policing needs of the communities they serve. The new Community Policing Teams will prioritise protecting people form harm, preventing and reducing crime and arresting criminals. They will work proactively with partners to tackle crime trends and longer term problems affecting the community and continue to engage with the public they serve.

“The proposal to reduce the number of Police Community Support Officers, which is currently the subject of consultation with affected staff, is not one that has been considered lightly by our Chief Constable. With less money it is inevitable that police forces will have to employ less people. But what we must ensure is that the resources we do have are placed where they are needed most - and that is where the most harm is being caused in our communities.

“I understand many residents in Brentwood will be saddened at the proposed loss of front counter services and the individuals who staff them. Compared to police stations in neighbouring district however Brentwood is seriously under-used by the community and is therefore an expense which is increasingly difficult to justify.

“The proposed closure of the front counter will have no impact on the level of service residents in Brentwood can expect from their local officers. I and my teams are thoroughly committed to focusing our efforts where they are needed most. Dedicated officers will continue to investigate your crimes, support victims, respond to emergencies and will continue to work in partnership with the local authority to prevent crime and improve community safety.

“The new Community Policing Team will be more focused and used more smartly to keep your community safe.

“The teams will not work in isolation and will be supported by detectives in CID, the Domestic Violence, Sexual Offences and Child Abuse investigation teams as well as specialist colleagues across the rest of the county for example the Serious Crime Directorate.

“Just because a town may no longer have a traditional police station, as we have come to know it and potentially fewer PCSOs does not mean that your area will not be policed. You will still have dedicated officers on hand ready to respond to emergencies and investigate crimes.

“For those residents wishing to visit a police station front counter, nearby Harlow and Grays police stations will continue to operate front counters seven days a week from 9am to 5pm. Essex Police is also developing new and improved ways for the public to contact us.

“I can reassure residents of Brentwood, that, in the face of Essex Police having to make very difficult decisions about staff and police stations, your officers will continue to be visible in the community, serving victims, catching criminals and providing emergency support.”