THE POLICE STATION Saundersfoot is closing and the property will be sold.

The police say that this is in line with wider changes that will modernise and improve the policing service in Pembrokeshire.

The police press office said: “Officers that serve the community of Saundersfoot will continue to work from their base in Tenby Police Station, which is less than four miles away, and continue to ensure a visible presence and effective engagement with residents and businesses in Saundersfoot.

“This move is part of a change programme across Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police, where estates, technology, and the equipment available to officers and staff are coming together to improve policing and the service to communities.”

Cllr Alec Cormack, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Corporate Finance and member for Amroth and Saundersfoot North said “In a time of massive budget pressures across the public sector it is not a surprise that the Saundersfoot police station is to finally close. 

“The building has only been occupied by exception in recent years, and I hope that the money saved will be used to enhance the service provided in Saundersfoot from officers based in Tenby.”

Saundersfoot South county councillor, Chris Williams, said that he hoped the money saved by closing the station, and generated by its sale, would be used to ensure that his constituents were still well-served by the police.

“After a recent zoom meeting with Police Superintendent Craig Templeton, his clear priority is to have officers on the streets instead of being in police stations,” he said.

“Dyfed-Powys Police has come under enormous pressure to cut costs while maintaining numbers on the beat. The station has certainly been downgraded over the years with the focus on Tenby station being less than four miles away.

“I sincerely hope that any money saved will be put into resources and making sure the residents of Saundersfoot still have a reliable police service serving the local communities.”

Chief Constable Dr Richard Lewis said: “This decision has come after careful evaluation to make best use of resources and deliver an effective police service that meets the needs and expectations of our communities.

“The closure and sale of Saundersfoot police station is a step forward in modernising and improving our services, enabling officers to continue their work with greater efficiency and effectiveness.

“The decision has been made with the best interests of taxpayers and the community in mind, as the current station is no longer operational as it is does not meet modern day policing requirements, and it is expensive to run.

“I want to reassure the local community that Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police is committed to maintaining the same level of service and support for our local communities, and residents and business in Saundersfoot will see no difference.

“Your local neighbourhood policing team will continue to provide a visible presence and effective engagement with residents and businesses.”

The building at Wogan Terrace, Saundersfoot, will go to market in the coming days.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said: “Historically, talk of police bases moving or stations closing and being sold, has triggered a narrative of police withdrawing from communities, fears about response times, and concerns about an increase in crime and disorder.

“However, I have been reassured by Chief Constable Dr Richard Lewis, that there will be no difference in the level of service to the public in Saundersfoot as a result of this estates decision.

“As Police and Crime Commissioner, I want to assure the public that despite the difficult decision to close and sell the station, our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities remains our priority.

“I recognise that change can be challenging, but please be assured that this strategic move will allow Dyfed-Powys Police to allocate resources more efficiently and will enhance their policing efforts.

“In today’s digital age, we are fortunate to have various channels through which people can connect with

Dyfed-Powys Police. In addition to phone calls, we encourage people to explore online methods and social media platforms used by the Force. These platforms often provide valuable updates, crime prevention advice, and community engagement opportunities, allowing people to connect and engage with the police and stay informed about local issues.

“By utilising these alternative channels, we can collectively contribute to more responsive and efficient policing, allowing Dyfed-Powys Police to focus on critical situations while still addressing the concerns and needs of our community.

“If you have any questions or concerns, I encourage you to reach out to my office. We value your input and appreciate your ongoing support in ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities.”

Saundersfoot Community Council said that they did not want to comment on the news but confirmed that they had not been informed of the changes in advance.

The police added: “Local communities can contribute to more responsive and efficient policing by using online methods of contact. If you need the police when it is not an emergency, you can contact them through a direct message on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, online, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908.

“Follow your Neighbourhood Policing Teams at Tenby, Saundersfoot and Narberth Police on Facebook and @DPPTenby on Twitter for all policing news, appeals and notification of engagement events.If a crime is in progress, or there is a danger to life, risk of serious injury, or damage to property, always dial 999.”