Hampshire Police Station front desk reopened to the public

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones and Chief Constable Alexis Boon cut the ribbon to reopen the front desk of the station in Hoe Road on Friday, March 20.

The opening of the counter will mean that residents will again be able to visit the station to talk with officers, ask questions, get advice, and help with the fight against crime. It closed during the austerity period.

Donna Jones called the reopening of the station “a historic chapter”.

She said: “For the public, I am really pleased. This is the ninth police station that I’ve opened in the last two years. I think I’m the only PCC who has been able to open police stations at the volume, giving the public back what they want, which is a front counter and the ability to speak to their police service. People pay their taxes; they quite rightly have the right to expect to come in and speak to police. I have another three stations that I will be opening over the next 12 months.

Chief Constable Alexis Boon (left) and Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones cutting the ribbon at the police station (Image: Chris Atkinson)

“It’s good. We have more police officers; we’re bringing back the local bobbies. The rural crime task force that I introduced last year is based here. We have dedicated detectives working on rural crime now, and this is my commitment to the public. They told me they wanted more cops, more police stations, and I’m delivering that for you.”

The Chief Constable said: “I think it is a really important investment to make. It is a statement to the community that we’re part of you, we’re here and present, and we’re here for businesses. To look after you, work with you and fight crime. It’s a real signal of our commitment.”

Also in attendance was the Deputy Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Jamie Scott.

He said: “It’s wonderful to see this valued base reopened and once again serving our community. Local policing plays a vital role in supporting our residents, and at Winchester City Council, we greatly appreciate the strong partnership we share with the police. Together, we are committed to ensuring that people are not only safe but also feel safe as they go about their daily lives.

“This joint working is central to our vision for thriving, confident, and well-supported communities across the district.

“We wish all officers and staff every success in their new home here, and look forward to continuing to work closely together in the months and years to come.”