ESSEX Police has announced plans to cut the opening hours of station front desks in a bid to save £2.5 million across the county.

Stations affected include Loughton, currently open 24/7, which police plan to open from noon to 6pm and Epping, which would have its opening hours reduced from 8am to 10pm to noon to 6pm.

Waltham Abbey and Ongar police stations are also due to close to the public.

The Guardian asked people on Loughton High Road what they thought of the plans.

Angela Surace, 30, of Border’s Lane, Loughton, said: “Fortunately, I have not been a victim, but I imagine I would just report anything by phone. I wouldn’t get in the car and drive down.

“It’s a shame, but it’s better that than take police off the streets.”

Terry Banks, 69, of Highclere Flats, Buckhurst Hill, said: “We do need it to be 24 hours, really.

“I’ve used it myself recently, to report a crime. I would rather have it there, to be able to go in.

“It’s reassuring. If you’re walking about and you see something, it’s nice if you can just walk in.”

Maxine Morley, 40, of Honey Lane, Waltham Abbey, said: “I would say you need to have one station open 24 hours at least within a five mile radius.

“I’ve always found them to be a lot more helpful in person. On the phone, you get shunted around on different contact numbers.

“You probably have to wait a bit in a police station, but somebody will see you at some point.”

Jacynth Mason, 66, of Golding’s Hill, Loughton, said: “I think it would be very inconvenient for everyone.

“Suppose something happened in the morning or overnight – you want to get there as quickly as you can.

“I’d rather they were there in person. You can explain yourself better.

“I get on the phone and I get mixed up.”

Cyril Berkeley, 75, of Upper Park, Loughton, said: “It’s unbelievable. It’s mind-boggling stupidity.

“You might be able to report a crime by phone, but it depends where you are and if you’ve had your mobile phone stolen.

“I have had to go there myself, but not for something urgent. It’s nice to think that it’s there, especially as off the High Road, there’s nightclubs and whatever else.”

Barry Lorraine, 56, of Gladstone Road, Buckhurst Hill, said: “I would like it open full time for the people who need it, but it’s a big station, so if you’ve got to have cuts, it’s got to be done.

“I’ve not gone in for many years, but I think it’s a good idea to keep it there.”

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