'Would be disingenuous' - Councillor explains decision not to sign petition calling for reopening of West Sussex town’s former police station

Donna Johnson, who sits with the Green and Independent Alliance, revealed that she had been sent a link to the petition, on February 23, but decided not to sign it.

She wrote on Facebook: “I politely declined to sign it, not because I wouldn't love to see us go back to the days of having local police stations, but because I don't want to give unrealistic expectations.”

Councillor Johnson said the station, on Chichester Road, had been sold years ago after policing methods changed, and that staffing shortages mean reopening it would be difficult.

“The fact is that the police sold the station years ago when they changed the way they worked, added to which there is a nationwide shortage of officers, and it would be impossible to have it manned.”

Instead, she pointed out that police currently use an office at the town hall, adding: “Officers and PCSOs use that during the day and night, and residents can make an appointment to speak with someone there.”

The social media post pointed out that councillors had previously raised concerns about rural policing with Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne. But were told that officer numbers remain a major constraint.

“What is very clear, is that they don't have the man (or woman) power, to staff police stations,” councillor Johnson said.

“Even Hove, with a population of over 90k people doesn't have its own station now.”

She acknowledged the position may disappoint some residents but said she did not want to campaign on something she believes is unlikely to happen.

“I wish it were different, but the police have to work with what they have, look at how they operate, and we, unfortunately, have to adapt as well.

“I know this isn't what people want to hear, and it would be very easy for me to fire off letters, present petitions, and lobby everywhere, but that would be disingenuous, and I'm not going to make political capital like that. Unless there are significant changes in the way the police operate, and a massive increase in officers, local stations like ours, won't be reinstated.

"That's just the reality of the situation.”

The petition, in question, has been signed by more than 1,000 people.

Petition starter Amy Jackson noted that Selsey has ‘unfortunately turned into a hotspot for criminal activities’.

She added: "An alarming increase in crimes committed by both adults and children is evident; these individuals act with impunity, believing they won't face repercussions. It is disheartening to see the same offenders repeatedly disregarding the law, affecting the safety and peace of our vibrant community.

"Local residents, overwhelmed and frustrated, find themselves in the unenviable position of gathering evidence and reporting crimes to the Chichester police, who are miles away and unable to address issues immediately.

"Selsey is not a sleepy country village – we are a dynamic and large community that deserves proper and proximate law enforcement to ensure our safety.

"The reinstatement of the Selsey Police Station would serve as a deterrent to crime, providing the much-needed assurance that law and order will prevail. A constant police presence right in our town would act as a foundation for building trust and safety within the community, letting residents know that their security is a priority.”

Ms Jackson said ‘every signature counts’ in ‘making our voices stronger and instigating the change we need’. She concluded: “Please sign this petition and help us make Selsey safe again.”

If you would like to sign the petition, visit: www.change.org/p/reinstate-selsey-police-station-and-lower-the-crime-rate