Future policing to stay the same

Sgt Paul Masterson, of the Battle Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “The Sussex Police Estates Review was announced recently including the fact that Battle Police Station will be closing.

“This has obviously generated a great deal of debate in the community but I wanted to reassure you that the change in location will not result in a change of service.

“Response policing will remain a priority and will in all likelihood move to a suitable purpose built facility.

“We will retain a front counter in Battle town and still have a community hub in Battle where the PCSOs and Neighbourhood Officers will work as they do in the present location.”

He said that the current police station building in North Trade Road is unsuitable for modern policing.

Sgt Masterson said: “As much as we love the look and feel of the old building we must accept that times and policing have changed and the current accommodation simply does not fit the role we now ask of it.

“Anyone who has visited the station will know it is often too hot in the summer, too cold in the winter, suffers maintenance issues and the rear yard is totally unsuitable for today’s size of car and the number we need.

“Offices are small and overcrowded with the IT equipment we need and the electrics really do not meet modern standards.

“Wherever we are based I can assure you the service we provide will be the same if not better and we will advise you of all the changes as they happen and lets not forget that these plans are currently scheduled for the 2016/17 financial year so we have plenty of time to prepare.”

Earlier this month, Sussex Police said it had not yet decided where Rother’s response officers will be based once Battle Police Station closes.