West Yorkshire Police have decided to move out of the old premises in York Place, Cleckheaton to the Police Station building in Heckmondwike. The move will be made in early September.

The decision has been made because York Place is now too small for the extra police staff who will be joining the Spen Valley Police team in September. York Place has not been a Police Station open to the public for some years though arrangements could be made to see a Police Officer there.

While understanding the operational reasons for the move, I am concerned that Cleckheaton has lost its Police base. I have suggested that the Police use a room in Cleckheaton Town Hall as a base where local people and town centre traders could meet police officers. At the moment the Police are not inclined to agree to this suggestion but may do if enough residents and traders ask for it.

Meanwhile, Inspector Tim Holland has assured us that there will, if anything, be an increased presence in Cleckheaton and our surrounding villages.

Please let me have any comments on this move and if you have any concerns.