Concern at the Thin Blue Line across big chunk of Bromsgrove district

He says his village feels ‘out on a limb’ and thinks the upcoming elections for Police and Crime Commissioner are a good time to prompt a rethink of whether the local policing area work effectively.

The Hagley and Rubery Local Policing Team, part of the West Mercia Force, cover from Hagley across to Frankley, Rubery and Barnt Green, taking in Clent, Belbroughton and Romsley.

In Hagley the village police station closed five years and Councillor Steve Colella believes the police are too stretched to be able to cover adequately.

He’s particularly concerned about places on the border between two forces and says there is ‘cross border crime’ taking place.

In recent weeks he also says residents have raised concerns about people from outside the area being spotted later at night trying car doors on people’s drives.

“With the re-scheduled Police and Crime Commissioner elections fast approaching I’m calling on a review of local Policing,” he said

“I feel that despite the efforts of the Policing Team themselves the role and job they’re being asked to do isn’t being supported and they’re asked to cover a ridiculously large area.

“I support the Policing Team as they’ve got a hard job to do in very difficult circumstances and of course what happens is crimes that affect our everyday lives are based on what the ‘system’ measures as it’s merits.

“In other words what is important to you and I in our everyday lives are ranked in importance and put against what is already a heavy workload.”

“Since the introduction of the Police and Crime Commissioner’ post I feel that the role of local policing teams is due for a review. The next PCC election would be an ideal time for that review to be conducted.”