07 Aug 2023
Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that they are to sell four Police Stations across the Force area in the coming months.
All four stations are not currently operational, having been identified as not meeting modern day policing requirements.
In Pembrokeshire, both Milford Haven and Saundersfoot Stations will be sold.
Police in Milford Haven are moving to a new base within the Town, closer to where local residents feel the Police should be – based on ASB volume.
The current Police station in Saundersfoot is located within a small building which isn’t open to the public. Officers that serve the community at Saundersfoot will continue to work out from their base in near town Tenby Police Station, which is less than 4 miles away.
In Carmarthenshire, Llanelli Police Station, and the old Kidwelly Station property are also to be sold as part of a change programme across Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police, where estates, technology, and the kit available to officers and staff are coming together to improve policing and the service to communities.
The former station in Kidwelly has not been operationally utilised as a Police Station for several years, following a decision by Dyfed-Powys Police to merge the police base with the Mid and West Wales Fire Service’s Station in the town. The property is currently being leased out and utilised as a rural resource centre that facilitates various support for the wider area.
Various assessments of Llanelli Police Station over the years led to the decision to invest in a multimillion construction project to build a new sustainable and purpose-built Police base and Custody Suite on the outskirts of Llanelli in Dafen, which opened its doors in May this year.
Now that the new base in Dafen has become fully operational, a decision has been made to sell the town centre Station building, as it is no longer operationally required by Dyfed-Powys Police.
The Neighbourhood Policing Team in Llanelli will continue to work from their base in the town centre, ensuring a visible presence and effective engagement with local residents and businesses.
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 stations are no longer operational as they do not meet modern day policing requirements, and are expensive to run.
“I want to reassure our local communities 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 Milford Haven, Saundersfoot, Llanelli and Kidwelly will see no difference.
“Your local neighbourhood policing teams will continue to provide a visible presence and effective engagement with residents and businesses.”
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 all four areas 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.”
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 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, or by calling 101.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908. If a crime is in progress, or there is a danger to life, risk of serious injury, or damage to property, always dial 999.
ENDS
Further information
Gruff Ifan
Head of Communications and Engagement
