'Our community deserves it' - Midhurst councillor makes police station appeal and seeks public opinion
The district councillor for Midhurst is leading calls for the town’s police station to reopen.
Dominic Merritt has invited residents to fill out a public survey.
The Chichester district councillor (Lib Dem) wrote on Facebook: “Please take a moment to complete my survey below. Your feedback will help me take this to the next level. Together, we can push for our police station to be reopened, our community deserves it.
"Please share, and if you would like a paper copy, please do get in touch with me.”
Among the questions are:
– Do you support reopening Midhurst Police Station?
– Do you believe Midhurst needs face-to-face police services?
– Have you ever needed to speak to a police officer in person in Midhurst? If yes, were you able to do so?
– Have you been unable or discouraged from reporting something because the station was closed?
– How far did you travel to reach a police station or officer?
– Do you feel confident that police are available when needed locally?
– Would reopening the station increase your confidence in Sussex Police?
Mr Merritt said public feedback is ‘vital in helping me understand community priorities, feelings of safety, and the level of support for restoring a local policing presence’.
He added: “I want to hear your views to bring back Midhurst's Police Station. This short survey invites residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to share their opinions on how a reopened station could benefit the area, what services you would like to see offered, and any concerns you may have.
"All responses are anonymous unless you choose to receive updates. The information collected will be used to inform decision making and ensure that the needs and voices of the Midhurst community are fully represented.
"Thank you for taking the time to participate and contribute to the future of local policing in Midhurst. A Safer Midhurst Starts Here.”
According to the Chichester District Council website, Mr Merritt was born and raised in Midhurst, where he attended Midhurst Primary School and later Midhurst Rother College.
He serves on the Midhurst Town Council and is ‘involved with several local committees and boards as a trustee’. After completing a business management course at Chichester College, Mr Merritt worked in the NHS and now works in a Surrey secondary school in Surrey as a head of year.