EAST Lancashire is set to lose four of its police station front counters in cost-cutting measures.

Front counters in Darwen, Waterfoot, Colne and Barnoldswick will be closed from 2018, but discussions on the future of Clitheroe Police Station are ongoing between Lancashire Police and Ribble Valley Council.

The plans are part of proposals to shave £19.8million from the force’s budget in line with Government cuts by 2020. That is on top of the £72.2million cut since 2010.

Front counter staff are currently under consultation but the closures could see a reduction in civilian staff numbers from 97 to 54.

The plans outlined by Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw will see reduced opening hours at Blackburn Greenbank, Blackburn town centre, Burnley, Accrington, Nelson and Chorley stations.

Mr Grunshaw said the closures would not affect the way areas are policed but, along with reduced opening hours at remaining front counters, will deliver over £1m in annual savings.

The decision comes on the back of a public consultation which saw 91 responses.

Chief Superintendent Pete Lawson, head of contact and response, said: “The decision to close some of our front counters has not been taken lightly. It follows what has been a very thorough review and a period of staff and public consultation.

“That review showed a significant decline in visitor numbers - some down to changes in processes like immigration checks and some vehicle checks which have moved online, but in the main it is due to improved technology and greater use of phones.”

Mr Grunshaw said: “The proposals in the consultation were based not just on reducing costs but also recognising that the public are choosing to engage with the police in different ways.

"This means that as demand falls the cost per interaction increases and the constabulary has to manage the continuing reductions in funding from Government.

“I want to reiterate that this decision will not change the way areas are policed in any way. Officers will still be based at local police stations and work in these communities.”