CALLS have been made for a police station to be opened in St John’s after a spate of crime in the area.

There have even been suggestions that St John’s Library could be used as a possible post for officers.

Jenny Barnes, who lives with her family in Bromyard Road, is calling on West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion to make the investment.

She said: “We have in recent times seen an increase in anti-social behaviour and crime.

“Lots of residents have experienced problems with vandalism, damage to cars and theft from gardens and property.

“These crimes undermine local and damage local confidence, we need to see local police on patrol, they need to be seen in the heart of St John’s.

“We need more police officers and police community support officers, they need a new base where people can visit and report crimes and discuss their concerns, even if it's not full time and only open for a few hours a day.”

She said the library “has vacant rooms, which are often not used”.

“It could be income for the library, increase footfall and provide safety and security when the library is unstaffed under the proposals for Libraries Unlocked. It would be a win-win for St John's.

“We need to bring confidence back to St John's, we need investment from all agencies.

“I hope the police will see this as an opportunity to tackle a real quality of life issue for St John's residents.”

St John's county councillor Richard Udall said: “The issues of crime and disorder need to be addressed and a new police station in the heart of St John's would indicate the commissioner is serious about tackling the problems which are experienced by many residents.

“I call upon Mr Campion to meet with both myself and local residents so we can discuss our concerns.

“I believe public agencies and local authorities should share resources, it saves money and could improve services for local residents.

“Having a police station in a public library makes perfect sense. I see no reason why it should not happen. Cooperation between the county council and the police in St John's could achieve real results for local people.”

Police and Crime Commissioner, John Campion, said: “As PCC, I am delivering on my commitment to ensure residents are safe and feel safe. I have provided West Mercia Police with the tools and resources needed to tackle issues that matter the most to the public, such as anti-social behaviour.

"This includes ensuring there is a dedicated local policing team and a police base within St John’s and with record levels of police officers in West Mercia, visibility has increased, and I am confident action is being taken to tackle ASB concerns in the area.”