National Police Air Service could be launched in Sussex

These plans would see Sussex move from being served by the two aircraft of the South East Air Support Unit (SEASU) to being served by aircraft based in Surrey, Hampshire, Kent and Oxford.

At a meeting on October 13, members agreed to this recommendation but with some caveats attached.

Chairman of the Police Authority, Steve Waight, said: “Although we broadly support these proposals the authority has been very clear that it will not do so if there is any reduction in coverage to air support in Sussex.

“In order for the authority to consider whether the NPAS proposal provides value for money for the people of Sussex we will need to consider detailed information and be satisfied that there is no significant reduction in the current level of response times and aircraft coverage to be provided by NPAS.

“The authority will continue to look at these proposals in great detail and any further decisions will come before the full Authority in due course.”