Council leader reacts to changes to police trial in Abbots Langley and South Oxhey

He said: “We here at the district council strongly support our Neighbourhood Policing Teams. Their visibility give that extra feeling of safety in our communities.

“That is why I am very pleased that Herts Police have reversed its operation decision, which the council has no say in, of moving officers stationed in Abbots Langley and South Oxhey at the start of their day to Rickmansworth Police Station Head Office. From Monday (19 October 2026), officers in those two areas will report directly to their respective local station. I have been assured there will be new briefing arrangements so the teams are fully aware of local crime issues.

“While we do have an effective and committed local police force that do a great job in community engagement and keeping us safe, there have been concerns over the visibility of the neighbourhood team from this trial. it is important that community policing can been seen as much as possible so that the public remain confident in the team’s ability to tackle and deter crime.

“I have kept in regular contact with the Three Rivers Chief Inspector and informed him of local issues and the public concern of the initial decision along with our community safety team. I am glad this trial has been changed and will be reviewed periodically by the Chief Inspector – with potentially extra officers in Abbots Langley later this year.

“The council and the police have a strong relationship in order to keep our safe district even safer, and we look forward to taking that partnership further.”