Police Commissioner's Report Clears Chief Constable

Commissioner Alan Hardwick, Independent (Lincolnshire Force Area), has been forced to accept the conclusions of a report he himself commissioned into allegations made against Temporary Chief Constable, Neil Rhodes.

In another misstep for Commissioner Hardwick a report, by the widely respected Chief Constable of Manchester Police, Sir Peter Fahy, has declared that allegations against Chief Constable Rhodes as "unsubstantiated".

Chief Constable Rhodes was suspended over his involvement in a dispute where he was accused of helping a former employee at West Yorkshire Police pursue a claim of racial discrimination which he knew to be contrived.

The report concluded there was no evidence to suggest that Neil Rhodes acted improperly in his role as a Chief Police Officers Staff Association "friend" to the employee. In the report Sir Peter said he had 'complete confidence' Chief Constable Rhodes acted 'from the best of motives' to try and 'achieve a reasonable compromise' He added:

"The investigation team conclude that Mr Rhodes did not exceed the intended boundaries or scope of a CPOSA friend as he properly understood them."

The report accepted there might have been a conflict of interest in some areas but also suggested more clarity is needed nationally, on the role of CPOSA friends.

In response to the report, Mr Hardwick said: 

"I had to take on a serious complaint that was made to me and the way I went around that, I believe, was the right way. I couldn't ignore it. 

"I remain troubled by the nature of the allegation and that it has not been possible for the investigating officer to determine exactly what happened in a private conversation between two highly regarded and credible professionals."

Commissioner Hardwick said the suspension had never been a personal issue and a judicial review had cost him £37,500, alone - questions are still to be answered about the cost to taxpayers about this sorry affair. Back in March Mr. Justice Stuart-Smith ruled that the Commissioner's decision was 'irrational' and 'perverse', determining that the Chief Constable's suspension was therefore unlawful. The judicial intervention was sparked when the Independent Police Complaints Commission were approach by Commissioner Hardwick to investigate and they determined that there was insufficient evidence for them to conduct an investigation.

 Following publication of Sir Peter's report, in a statement, Mr Rhodes said:

"I have sought over the last six months to maintain a dignified silence, safe in the knowledge that I knew there was never any substance in the spurious allegation. 

"The past few months have been unusually challenging. Following the judicial review decision, the commissioner and I resolved that we must draw a line beneath this matter, for the good of Lincolnshire, and demonstrate we could work together productively and positively."

Commissioner Hardwick had been Lincolnshire's Police and Crime Commissioner for just three months when he took the decision to suspend Neil Rhodes. The matter has attracted critics at Westminster, with the Chairman of the Home Affairs Select Committee, Keith Vaz MP, describing the way the chief constable's suspension was handled as a 'sorry state of affairs'. There have also been calls for Commisioner Hardwick to resign, amongst these local West Lindsey District Councillor, Cllr. Giles McNeill, Conservative (Nettleham Ward), who said:

"Commissioner Hardwick has once again been found wanting. First we had the refusal of the Independent Police Complaints Commission to investigate the matter then the Judge's ruling and now the investigation that he set up himself has found that the allegations were unsubstantiated.

 "It is hardly a surprise then that people are calling for the TV anchorman-come-Police Commissioner to resign. He has demonstrated again, clearly that he is not up to the job.

It is understood that Chief Constable Rhodes intends to apply for the post of permanent chief constable when it is advertised.

Games Machine Cash Stolen from Village Pub

Lincolnshire Police are investigating after cash was stolen from a pub gaming machine.

The incident is understood to have taken place at around 9:00pm on Wednesday, 9th January 2013 from the White Hart Inn, High Street, Nettleham.

It is thought that four men, who were drinking in the pub, smashed the front of the machine and stole the cash box. They then left the pub and may have left the area in a dark coloured car.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Lincolnshire Police via the non emergency 101 number, or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Cllr. Giles McNeill, Conservative (Nettleham Ward), said:

"This is a very serious crime and I hope that we can expect a proper investigation by local police. Obviously if any one has any information I encourage them to contact the police or Crimestoppers.

"I can only imagine how distressing this is for the pub's landlord and local residents. I urge people to be vigilant in the future."

Nettleham Pair Charged with Charity Fraud

Lincolnshire Police Officers have charged two people in relation to alleged fraud offences involving a charity.

Peter Childs, of Hall Lane, Nettleham, has been charged with thirty-two offences including false accounting, fraud by abuse of position and theft in relation to Mencap.

Alison Childs, of Hall Lane, Nettleham, has been charged with twenty-nine offences including false accounting, fraud by abuse of position and theft in relation to Mencap.

Both have been released on police bail to appear at Lincoln Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 8th January 2013.

PCC2012: 'Independent's' Entire Campaign Team Resigns

A candidate campaigning to become one Lincolnshire's new first elected Police and Crime Commissioner has being secretly backed by American lobbyists and companies pushing for police privatisation, The Sunday Telegraph has revealed.

Mr. Mervyn Barrett has been producing expensive leaflets, free DVDs and full-page newspaper adverts in his bid to be elected as next month.

Unusually for a rural, local election, Mr. Barrett has employed professional campaign staff, commissioned weekly opinion polls, opened 'field offices' and is driven in a chauffeured Mercedes, the paper alledges. He has poured tens of thousands of pounds into the elections, far more than any other candidate anywhere else in Britain.

Mr. Barrett describes himself as an 'Independent', who is opposed to 'party politics' in policing. He has pointedly refused to disclose who is funding him, despite widespread local suspicions generated by the intensity and professionalism of his campaign.

At a hustings event held in Boston Mr. Barrett's campaign is described as having 'fallen apart at the seams' when he was not able to develop a 'coherent, cogent argument, let alone find the ability to string three sentences together'. He also was set upon at the hustings by those present for advocating 'cannabis coffee shops' as a part of his drugs policy. Mr. Barrett's professional campaign manager Mr. De Ungar Brown swore numerous times, despite being requested to desist.

The entire campaign team resigned on Saturday, within hours of being contacted by The Sunday Telegraph. Responding to the loss of his campaign team and the article by the paper Mr. Barrett said in a statement:

"I now wish to take time to reflect on both the reaction to the Telegraph article and also to consider how best I could continue my campaign following the resignation of my Campaign Director and Campaign team. I also wish to consult with my legal advisers regarding a number of inaccuracies that the original article contained.

"I will be making no further comment at this stage; however I will be holding a full press conference on Wednesday, 24^th October."

The Sunday Telegraph suggested that his campaign has been run by a team from a US-based neo-conservative think tank, the Fund for the New American Century, funded in part by a variety of corporate donors with an interest in public-sector privatisation.

The papers's investigation of Mr Barrett’s campaign website reveals that it is registered to a New York and Washington-based 'political action committee', MatthewPAC, part of The Fund for the New American Century, whose website says it is 'dedicated to building America’s future by supporting candidates who share our vision for reform and innovation'.

The Sunday Telegraph reports it has established that Mr.De Unger Brown, Mr Barrett’s 'special adviser', campaign manager and press spokesman until yesterday, is Chairman of the Fund for the New American Century. Commenting to the newspaper Mr. De Unger Brown said:

"We support Republican candidates. It is a centre-Right organisation.

"I don’t think that neo-con would be an unfair description."

Mr. David Bowles, standing for the Lincolnshire Independent's Party, commented to the paper:

"It is a very slick campaign but it appears that Mervyn is no more than a puppet.

"Every time I have tried to contact him, the response has always come back from Matthew and every time I’ve tried to meet him it’s been Matthew I’ve met instead."

Mr. Bowles claimed that last week Mr. De Unger Brown asked to meet him to discuss the possibility of an electoral deal, with Mr Barrett becoming his deputy, the paper reported.

Conservative candidate Richard Davies, who is front-runner to be Lincolnshire's first Police and Crime Commissioner, said:

"I think he has come into Lincolnshire to try to run a big presidential style political campaign and that does not really work here."

Under Electoral Commission rules independent candidates do not have to reveal their source of donations until ninety days after the ballot. Its guidelines state candidates are able to accept contributions only from 'certain mainly UK-based sources'.

EXCLUSIVE: 'Tractor' Spontaniously Combusts on Washdyke Lane, Nettleham

Remains of the 'Tractor' that caught fire on
Washdyke Lane, Nettleham

Residents of Washdyke Lane, Nettleham have been left shocked after what has been described as a 'tractor' caught fire earlier today. Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue were called to the scene shortly after midday.

According to an eyewitness account the driver of the vehicle was seen running from side-to-side of the engine with a small extinguisher trying to bring flames under control. The tractor’s fuel tank burst, spilling fuel down road, with flames up to twenty feet high, visible from the A46 ring road at its height.

Around lunchtime on Tuesday, 2nd October 2012 the vehicle caught fire and by two o'clock, the road remained closed between the end of Kingsway to the bus-stop and the Highways department had been contacted.

Firemen used two main jets and two breathing apparatus, and extinguished the fire. One fire engine remained on scene to clear out the area. The cause of the fire is still unknown. No one was reportedly injured in the incident.

Passengers on the No. 11 bus, arriving in Nettleham from Lincoln, as they turned on to Washdyke Lane were faced with a scene of carnage on the carriage way.

District Councillor for the Nettleham Ward, Giles McNeill, speaking at the scene, said:

"It seems to have been a very severe fire, and very serious incident. I have spoken with a member of Lincolnshire Police to understand what may have happened here today.

"I am not aware if anyone has been injured at this early stage. I hope that those involved are safe and well and that answers will be forthcoming." 

PCC2012: Richard Davies Supports Local Residents On Nettleham Custody Suite Proposals

Conservative Candidate for Lincolnshire's first Police and Crime Commissioner, Cllr. Richard Davies, has supported local residents in both Nettleham and Lincoln by opposing current plans to move the West Parade Police Station's facilities to a new build at the Police Headquarter's site on Deepdale Lane, Nettleham. Cllr. Davies said:

"Lincolnshire Police have floated the idea of moving Lincoln’s West Parade Police Station and Custody Suite to Nettleham.

"Looking at the current evidence and plans for the relocation of Lincoln City Police Station I do not think that Nettleham is the best place to locate a custody suite. 

"On the broader issue of city wide policing: I believe Lincoln city centre needs a policing presence in the form of a police station, including custody suite – West Parade may not be the best location but we need a comprehensive business case and consultation of all options before a decision is made"

PCC2012: Conservatives Choose County's Police and Crime Commissioner Candidate

The candidates for the post of the newly created office of Police and Crime Commissioner for the Lincolnshire force area have become clearer following the Conservatives' selection of their candidate.

Members of the Conservative Party from across Lincolnshire came together at a closed primary to select a final candidate after several months of scrutiny of nineteen individuals who put themselves forward for the role.

Cllr. Richard Davies

Cllr. Richard Davies, Conservative (Grantham North West Division, LCC), has been selected as his party's candidate. As a member of Lincolnshire Police Authority Cllr. Davies is well placed to fulfil the demands of the role of Police and Crime Commissioner for the County. Richard says:

"Having been born and raised in Lincolnshire I understand the negative impact crime and anti-social behaviour has on hard working families across our county. I believe my no-nonsense approach will help prevent crime, reduce people’s fear of lawlessness and offer the public genuine reassurance about the way their communities are policed. That is why I am seeking the Conservative Party nomination for Police and Crime Commissioner for Lincolnshire."

Cllr. Davies is the front runner in this contest, he should confidently retain his deposit (£5,000 - lost if polls below 5%) and could easily win on the first choice votes (the system used for the election of these posts is the Supplementary Voting System).

Cllr. Phil Dilks, Labour (Deeping St. James Ward, SKDC), is a former journalist. He served eight years on Lincolnshire County Council up to the 2009 local elections when he was kicked off the authority by local voters. He served on Lincolnshire Police Authority during his time as a county councillor. He is a GMB Trade Unionist.

Cllr. Dilks secured his seat on South Kesteven District Council in a postponed election last year, however there was criticism as Cllr. Dilks gave himself no party description. Despite being a Labour Party member and former Labour councillor and Labour press officer. He now sits as a member of the Labour group on the council. He is expected to retain his deposit.

Other candidates at this stage to have emerged are former Chief Executive of Lincolnshire County Council Mr. David Bowles, Independent. The voting system favouring established parties expect him to loose his deposit.

Mr. Mervyn Barrett OBE, Independent has come forward as well and has a background of over 30 years experience of the criminal justice and crime prevention fields - for which he received his OBE in 1999. Perhaps the more serious of the two independent campaigns. He may retain his deposit if he does significantly better than Mr. Bowles.

Finally, for the moment, Cllr. Elliot Fountain, English Democrats (Fenside Ward, BBC) has put his hat into the ring. Expect him to loose his deposit.

Lincolnshire Conservatives Police Commissioner Candidates Whittled Down to Three

Senior members of the Conservative Party in Lincolnshire met on Saturday to agree the final three names that will go forward to the party members who will select their candidate for the new role of Police and Crime Commissioner, expected to be a contested election on Thursday, 15th November 2012.

A closed primary of members of the Conservative Party will take place on Saturday, 23rd July 2012.

The Selection Council have selected:

Cllr. Richard Graham Davies

Represents the Grantham North West Division on Lincolnshire County Council
Member of Lincolnshire Police Authority

Richard says:

"I was born and raised in Lincolnshire and now have a young family growing up here. It is my aim to make Lincolnshire a better place to live and work. Together we can make our county a safer place to live for everyone, but to do this I need your support. I want to hear from you. 

"Having been a supporter of directly elected commissioners since the idea was first raised I see a directly accountable individual as a vital step towards restoring faith in our police service. My experience dealing with Lincolnshire Police means that I have seen first hand how they operate and have the ability to push back and challenge ideas and decisions where appropriate. I understand the concerns ordinary people have about crime and this will inform how I set the policing priorities should I be fortunate enough to be elected. 

"Visible policing is a priority for the people of Lincolnshire and I will make marked changes in the county by creating ‘Cop Shops’ on every town High Street, holding regular public briefings at which members of the public can question senior police officers 

"I believe that my direct experience of business and local government, my understanding of policing issues, my in depth knowledge of Lincolnshire and my involvement with Lincolnshire Police and passion for better performance make me the ideal candidate for the role of Lincolnshire PCC."

Dr. Lee Rotherham

Author
Former Assistant to Sir Richard Body, Member of Parliament for Holland and Boston

Lee says:

"I believe I have the right mix of political and frontline experience to make a real difference in the county I grew up in. 

"I want police officers seen on the streets, and back on the beat; and I believe in correct, not politically correct, policing.

Cllr. Kelly Jason Smith

Represents the Lincoln Moorland Division on Lincolnshire County Council
Member of Lincolnshire Police Authority


Kelly was elected to Lincolnshire County Council in 2009 and was later appointed to the Police Authority. Cllr. Smith was rapidly promoted to the position of Executive Member for Finance and Human Resources.

Police Authority Responds to Parish Council's Concern

Cllr. Barry Young, Chairman of Lincolnshire Police Authority, has responded to a letter from Nettleham Parish Council regarding the proposed new Police Station to be built at the Police Headquarters site on Deepdale Lane in the village.  Mr. Young writes:

"We very much appreciated the opportunity which our attendance at your recent Extraordinary Parish  Council meeting gave us to explain our thinking and try to allay some of the very understandable, although not always entirely valid, concerns expressed. 

"I note the resolution passed by the Parish Council after we had left and comment as follows:

1. Lincolnshire Police Authority has specific statutory responsibilities which mean that we simply cannot undertake to defer individual substantive decisions such as this until the arrival of the Commissioner towards the end of November. However, in reality, the "Lincoln Project" of which this is just a part, is still very much in its embryonic stages and I foresee much if not all of the time between now and then being needed for the completion og our current investigations, considerations of appropriate technical reports and further consultation, let alone any entry into the formal planning process if ultimately we decide that it would be appropriate to proceed in any particular way.

1. We have always made it clear that dialogue with the Parish Council will continue throughout as appropriate and we value the important role you play in linking us to the Nettleham community's views.

1. I not that in the meantime the Parish Council is opposed to the current proposals.

"I look forward to further discussion with the Parish Council as matters develop."

EXCLUSIVE: Nettleham Parish Council Object to New West Parade in Nettleham

Nettleham Parish Council, tonight, held over two hours of discussion and debate on a proposal, brought forward by Lincolnshire Police and G4S, to build a replacement to the West Parade Police Station, in Lincoln, at the force's Headquarters site on Deepdale Lane, Nettleham, with a firm resolution to oppose the current plans.

At a packed meeting of over 200 residents at Nettleham Village Hall, Brookfield Avenue the Parish Council welcomed Cllr. Barry Young, Conservative (Sleaford Rural South Division), Chairman of Lincolnshire Police Authority, Chief Constable Neil Rhodes, together with Mrs. Judith Hogan, Head of Strategic Development (Lincolnshire Police), Chief Inspector Steve Taylor, Super Intendant Paul Gibson and Mr. Jerry Mayor from G4S - the private company involved in delivering £200m of services to Lincolnshire Police over the next decade.

All twelve Parish Councillors were in attendance. At the beginning of the meeting, so that, subsequently, it would be possible for anyone to know how the Parish Councillors voted, Cllr. Giles McNeill called for all votes taken to be recorded votes, under Schedule 12 Section 40 of the Local Government Act 1972.

Proceedings began with a presentation by Cllr. Young and Chief Constable Rhodes. Cllr. Young hightlighted that this was not a 'done deal' and that they were very much at the beginning of the process. In difficult fiscal circumstance the police authority 'would rather invest in police officers and not in buildings'. Cllr. Young confirmed that the new facility would operate as the the main operational divisional headquarters for Lincoln and West Lindsey.

The Chief Constable made it clear that G4S would be providing only back room, support services, saying:

"Lincolnshire Police is run by the Police, not G4S"

Seeking to reassure the meeting the Chief Constable said:

"I choose my words carefully. This is not a done deal. We look forward to a sensible conversation with our neighbours. However, we will not discuss any other sites or commercially sensitive matters.

"I used to live on All Saints Lane, I still have a pint in the Black Horse Pub, This is our village too."

It became clear during the course of the discussion that the proposal was for a significantly more substantive facility than merely a custody suite with 30 cells, but in fact is a replacement for the majority of the West Parade  facility.

Following the presentation a question and answer session took place with residents and councillors participating, broadly the questions were hostile to the proposals and many went unresolved. Cllr. Hill made a substantial point, having been the chartered engineer, who in the 1970s, working for Lincolnshire Laboratories investigated the site and published a report that it was unsuitable for development for various reasons, primarily because the site is a formally uncontrolled public tip with unknown contaminants, possibly vehicles with varying depths.

A number of residents raised concerns over the release of those detained at the site, which, at the conclusion of the meeting, it was felt had not been sufficiently addressed by some councillors.

Cllr. McNeill raised concern about the plans were being done to tie the hands of the Police and Crime Commissioner, expected to be elected on Thursdsay, 15th November 2012. Cllr. Young informed the meeting that the Police Authority were conducting 'business as usual'.

Prior to the debate by the Parish Council, Cllr. Young and the Chief Constable left the meeting.

Each Parish Councillor commented on the outlined proposals. Cllr. Evans, having reviewed a considerable amount of the relevant planning documentation considered that the 'proposals fail on a number of levels, sustainability and edge of a settlement development' contrary to many established policies. Cllr. Siddall highlighted that this was not Nimbyism, it was an objection based on the depth of feeling in the village and the concern over the impact of the proposal, particularly the traffic on Deepdale Lane and the A46. Cllr. McNeill raised his objection, referrring fellow councillors to Planning Police Statement 23 Annex 2 (Contaminated Land) 

Cllr. Downs stated his view that  we should 'applaud the desire to improve facilities and minimise costs' but that as times move on, requirements alter. He believed that 'there are a lot of problems associated with this development and it really should be sited in a much more urban area'. Cllr. Hill made one of the most damning crticisms stating that:

"Others [developers] have been open, honest and frank. They have not answered the questions we wanted to know."

Cllr. Spencer concurred saying 'I think they are not being truthful'.

Cllr. Mrs. Clayton, the Vice-Chairman, stated

"Here we are again, finding ourselves up against another unwelcome intruder - and it's the police!

"This will turn them into the neighbours from hell. Not this. Not hear. Please Don't make us pay the price."

The Chairman of the Parish Council, Cllr. Williams, echoed the comments of his fellow councillors however he wanted to make mention that the Parish Council recognises the enormous task the Chief Constable has in policing the county. He said he was 'completely opposed to the current formulation of the proposal as previously outlined'.

The Chairman proposed, seconded by Cllr. McNeill and the Parish Council resolved that:

"The Parish Council request that Lincolnshire Police Authority defers any further action in relation to this Project until the new Police Commissioner has been appointed; 

"In any event, meaningful dialogue needs to be held with the Parish Council before any decision is taken to submit a planning apllication; and 

"In the meantime, the Parish Council is opposed to the current proposals as formulated by the Lincolnshire Police Authority."

Chief Constable’s Speech to Nettleham Parish Council Meeting

Text of the speech by Chief Constable Neil Rhodes to Nettleham Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday, 24th May 2012 at Nettleham Village Hall, Brookfield Avenue.

"Mr Chairman, thank you very much for the opportunity to speak to the Parish Council and the residents of the village about the prospect of building an operational police station on our headquarters site here in Nettleham.

"I choose my words carefully, and say ‘prospect’ because for us this is not a done deal, but further development at the headquarters site is a strong option. We are very much here to listen, and look forward to a sensible and intelligent conversation with a community that in the past has always been strong supporters of the police.

"What we won’t be discussing in detail are alternative options we are or have considered, or commercially sensitive reports or costs. We are here to listen to your views on the viability and suitability of this site.

"So let me set out the issues for you as we see them. Lincoln police station, at West Parade, serves the city and the wider West Lindsey area, supplemented by a number of smaller stations, probably the largest being at Gainsborough. Officers working from there include roads policing teams and several other teams that serve the wider area – and yes, including 22 busy cells.

"The building is old, tired, expensive to run and needs a lot of money spending on it. It's far too big for us now and chunks of it stand empty. The location is poor. It's okay for town centre foot patrol, but vehicle access is really difficult - it's a really choked up spot. It's not a friendly place for the public.

"We need to separate out, the town centre team and cars and put them in a far more publicly friendly place, right in the heart of the town centre, preferably shared with other agencies, accessible to the public.

"We need all of the back office support, booking on and office facilities, interview teams, custody facilities, traffic teams etc to be in a good strategic location, within a modern, sustainable, economical building. We have explored alternatives. With a very tight budget you can understand why developing an existing police base, that's 60 seconds from the bypass and on the main A46 arterial road really seems to fit. A base that has a lot of land, that we own, and which is already connected to the police IT infrastructure we need.

"With any planning application there are many issues, the site, the appearance, traffic flows, changes of existing use. In this case the one consistent message we are hearing from residents focuses on the handling of prisoners and the potential release of prisoners on the edge of a beautiful, tranquil village that is a very low crime area indeed. Many of you came here just for that reason. I can understand those concerns and that they are genuinely held. You will get no accusation of NIMBYism from me.

"In addition, you have raised concerns with us in relation to the viability of a build in the preferred position on site, as it is the location of an old quarry, and also raised concerns about footpaths needing to be redirected. We are looking into both of those issues, but should either prove a real problem, this is a very large site and the building could be accommodated readily in an alternative location on it.

"When dealing with your concerns what I hope to do is try to offer some measure of reassurance, reaffirm we are listening and that this is not already decided.

"Of prisoners released, what is their motivation to visit and cause trouble in the local housing estate? Most just want to get home ASAP. Existing facilities service not only Lincoln but the whole of West Lindsey. We have a duty of care to people we arrest; we don't just turf them out miles from home, with no transport or means of getting back. Family and friends collect, solicitors help, interviewing officers returning to their area help. That's just business as usual for us. In addition, in this case, we have built in transport arrangements that will see prisoners taken and released back at Lincoln bus and rail stations where that is sensible and appropriate.

"I'm sure someone will point out that once you've finished your investigation and charged a person you have to bail and release them. You can't just keep them for another couple of hours until transport is available. Quite right. But if we think they are likely to cause problems and commit offences in the immediate area on release, that's grounds to detain or impose stringent bail conditions. The proportion of people, backed by their solicitor, insisting on immediate release, whose transport arrangements we are not happy with and who have the intention to offend immediately in the Nettleham village, well you work it out for yourself - it has to be very low indeed.

"Bail backs (people who are arrested and later have to return to a police station) that will be dealt with at HQ site, most will have driven there and will drive away. Many now will be dealt with offsite or by postal charging. BUT, transport back to Lincoln centre is there for them too.

"So, in summary, there is a need to replace the main police station that serves this area, Lincoln and wider West Lindsey. It needs to be in a good strategic location for that area, not land-locked in town. We have an existing police site at Nettleham that fits the requirement and which we already own. It has to be a strong option on cost alone. We are exploring the viability of planning consent. We are talking with and more importantly listening to local residents. In due course we'll make a full report to the Police Authority, who will debate the matter in public, and who will also listen to your views, before they decide, balancing the whole case for the good of the wider area, what course to pursue.

"In the meantime, this meeting is neither the start to our conversation with residents, we have had two open days in the village hall already, nor is it the end. We want to discuss this further. I know there is a really strong and well organised group calling themselves SOLVE who fiercely oppose this development. I met last week with one person from that group and I would like to talk more. We are open minded, prepared to listen to argument and evidence, I'd like to think you are too. The offer is open and genuine.

"Thank you for listening.  Mr Chairman, thank you for this opportunity to speak."

Massive Turnout Expected for Public Meeting Tonight

Nettleham Parish Council will be holding an extraordinary meeting tonight at Nettleham Village Hall, Brookfield Avenue commencing at 7:30pm.

The meeting is to consider proposals by Lincolnshire Police and G4S to build a new 'deployment base'/'custody suite' at the Police Headquarters site on Deepdale Lane, Nettleham.

Lincolnshire Police and G4S have been allocated half an hour to make a presentation, this will be followed by a twenty minute question and answer session. Following this residents will have an opportunity to make their views known, a period of forty minutes has been allocated for this. Finally the Parish Council will consider what preliminary position they wish to take pending a formal planning application being presented to West Lindsey District Council.

The meeting is expected to be attended by a large number of local residents, with estimates suggesting a turnout of around 300. Nettleham Village Hall has a capacity of 180, so plans have been made for an overflow area outside where local residents will be able to hear the discussion taking place inside the Hall. At the Village Hall Committee meeting on Monday night plans were put in place to ensure that refreshments would be available and there would be volunteer stewards available to manage car parking. Local residents are urged to make their way to the meeting on foot, where possible, as parking will be exceedingly limited.

The Parish Council's meeting follows on from a two-day exhibition of the plans held at the Old School, Mill Hill earlier in the month. The view that emerged from this consultation was that a significant number had concerns about the proposal.

Tonight will be a further opportunity for the Police to explain in detail how the concerns of local residents can be dealt with. The greatest fear local residents have is that those released will be free to enter the main body of the village. Despite reassurances by senior members of the force that released prisoners would be returned to 'where they came from' the legal basis for this is unclear. Many residents will want a specific reassurance on this particular matter.

Local action group S.O.L.V.E. (Save Our Local Village Environment) have presented a list of fourteen specific, detailed questions which the Parish Council will expect answers to.

Expected to be attending tonight is the Acting Chief Constable Neil Rhodes on behalf of Lincolnshire Police together with a significant portion of the local press.

Edward Leigh MP Calls for Rethink on Nettleham Custody Suite

Local MP Edward Leigh today urged caution over Lincolnshire Police’s proposed new custody suite on Deepdale Lane.

"I think that it’s vital that Lincolnshire Police consider carefully the implications of putting a custody suite in a residential and rural area, as well as taking residents’ views into account."

People living locally have been concerned by the plans to relocate capability from the Force’s West Parade Station to a new privately run facility adjacent to Lincolnshire Police Headquarters in Nettleham.

Mr. Leigh has said that he supports the Police when it comes to innovative solutions to smaller budgets, 'I think that most taxpayers can agree that savings in the police budget which allow more focus on front-line policing in straightened times are a good thing'. However he added that 'schemes which cause large numbers of criminals to be released onto the streets of Nettleham are simply unacceptable. People write to me to tell me how worried they are for the safety of their homes, their children, and themselves if this plan goes ahead. It is crucial that the Police fully address these concerns before this project progresses any further.'

A number of local residents have made their opposition to the scheme clear, on the basis that released criminals will have nowhere to go. There are fears that they will commit robbery and burglary within Nettleham in order to fund alcohol or drug habits, or in order to get back into Lincoln.

Judgement Day: Police & G4S Exhibition Expected to Fuel Controversy

Local residents in Nettleham are expected to attend the first of two consultation events being held by Lincolnshire Police at the Large Hall of the Old School on Mill Hill today.

The Parish Council arranged for the Police Authority and G4S to hold an Exhibition in the Village at which they can roll out their plans; this will take place today and tomorrow at the Old School, Nettleham. The sessions will run from 9:30am - 3:00pm on both days.

A large number of local residents are expected to attend to find out more details about the Police's proposals. A number of Parish Councillors will also be in attendance.

The proposals have met with opposition from some quarters, a facebook group has been established as has a resident's group - S.O.L.V.E. - Save Our Local Village Environment.

Police Authority Looking For Community's Views

Lincolnshire Police Authority is holding its next formal meeting at Police Headquarters, Deepdale Lane, Nettleham near Lincoln on Friday, 27th April 2012 starting at 10.30am in Conference Room D.

At each ordinary meeting of the Authority, members of the public may ask questions on any police authority business. Questions must be submitted in advance. Mr Barry Young, Chairman of the Police Authority, said:

"The Authority remains keen to ensure that members of the public have an opportunity to raise any matters relating to Police Authority business. Providing people with the facility to ask questions at Police Authority meetings is just one way of doing this. 

"We really are eager to take questions. However they must relate to Police Authority business, rather than operational matters which are the responsibility of the Chief Constable. Individuals can submit their question by writing to the Chief Executive or speaking to him over the telephone - it's as easy as that. We have set aside 20 minutes at each of our ordinary meetings to consider questions from the public and we hope to see a positive response".

Questions from the public must be submitted to the Chief Executive no later than 12 noon on Wednesday, 25th April 2012. The Chief Executive can be contacted by telephone on 01522 558022 or by e-mail: police.authority@lincs.pnn.police.uk.

Nettleham Parish Council Await Information and Facts on Police Custody Suite

Nettleham Parish Council was first notified of the proposal ,by the Lincolnshire Police Authority, to construct a custody suite at the Deepdale Lane site, at the beginning of March 2012. At a Council meeting held on the 20 March, The council discussed how they should respond. Their immediate reaction was that they needed to have a great deal more background information and facts from the Police Authority concerning their proposals before they could possibly comment on the matter; moreover, the local community would need to be consulted beforehand. To this end, the Parish Council has arranged for the Police Authority and G4S to hold an Exhibition in the Village at which they will roll out their plans; this will take place on the Friday, 11th & Saturday, 12th May 2012 at the Old School, Nettleham.

In addition, a Special Meeting of Nettleham Parish Council has been arranged for the evening of Thursday, 24th May 2012 in the Village Hall. At that meeting, the Police and G4S will make a formal presentation and the Council will listen to residents’ views before debating the issue. As a Statutory Consultee the Parish Council will have the opportunity to comment on the Planning Application when it is submitted by the Police Authority to West Lindsey District Council. West Lindsey has the final say on whether or not the development goes ahead.

Cllr. Terry Williams, Chairman of the Parish Council stated:

"Until the Parish Council have been provided with all the relevant facts and the Village has been consulted, it would not be appropriate for the Parish Council to comment any further on this matter at this stage."

Nettleham Parish Council Wants Answers On Police Custody Suite

Mulsanne Park Pavilion was packed with nearly one hundred local residents from Nettleham this evening; for what was widely expected to be a routine meeting. However, events took a dramtic turn over the weekend when Mrs. Sue Turnbull, of Washdyke Lane, instigated a campaign to raise awareness, that the plans for a new operational facility, at the Police Headquarters on Deepdale Lane, were due to be discussed.

For the multitude who attended their were audible gasps when they were informed that they would need to sit through over an hour of discussion between the Parish Council and Mrs. Manjeet Gill and Mr. Mark Sturgess, Chief Executive and Director of Planning at West Lindsey District Councl respectively. Undeterred, shortly before a quarter to eight, the Chairman, Cllr. Terry Williams, moved the item up the agenda to take as the next item; and discussion began.

A number of speakers from the floor put questions to Inspector Stubbs, who was representing Lincolnshire Police. He wanted to stress that talk of a massive custody suite was misguided; that in fact what was being considered was a replacement facility to the West Parade Police Station in Lincoln.

Parish Councillors sought answers from Insp. Stubbs. After nearly an hour of discussion, questions and answers Cllr. Giles McNeill proposed that a suitable letter be drafted to the Deputy Chief Constable asking for a dialogue to commence with the Parish Council. Further that they arrange an Exhibition to explain the plans to local residents and make themselves available to attend a Public Meeting, convened by the Parish Council. This was seconded by Cllr. Mike Spencer and unanimously agreed. Cllr. McNeill said, following the meeting:

"Residents of Nettleham are demanding answers, and the Parish Council has said it will facilitate this. This is such an important issue that we must get the fact about what is proposed. It was really good to see so many residents of the village turn out and demonstrate their strong feeling. Now we absolutely must act, and act quickly, to ensure that people get the information want and deserve."

Details of a facebook page that has been set up as a focus for the campaign can be found here: http://www.facebook.com/CampaignForG4SToHearNettlehamsVoice

Custody Suite Plans Likely To Cause Controversy at Parish Council Meeting

Following on from Lincolnshire Police's announcement about the possibility of establishing a new custody suite at the Nettleham Headquarters on Deepdale Lane local campaigners have begun the process of making their voices heard loudly and clearly.

The message they want to send to Mr. Barry Young, the Chairman of Lincolnshire Police Authority is 'No'.

In a letter to Parish Councillors Mr. Young says:

"[T]he media had been told in general terms that G4S intended to build a new operational deployment base incorporating a state-of-the-art custody suite somewhere in the county.  No location was given. During interviews following the contract signing, reference was made to the building being constructed, subject to consultation and planning permission, on the Headquarters site at Nettleham 

"The important point here is consultation.  It was not our initention to spring any surprises on our neighbours, and this letter is to assure you and your fellow councillors that Nettleham Parish Council will be an important part of the consultation process. We like to think we have always been good neighbours, and we can assure you that we will do all we can to ensure this remains the case."

However, in an unsigned letter, posted on a number of notice boards in the village and delivered to a number of homes for circulation, states that:

"When criminals are released from the new Nettleham cell block where Do [sic] YOU think they will go? They will be released into the village and can look for places to burgle to raise funds for the drink or drug habit many of them have, or try to take cars to get back to where they have come from."

There is properly a lot of concern about this proposal, regardless of how embryonic it may be. Tonight's Nettleham Parish Council Meeting is expected to seethe with resentment.

Police Announce Custody Suite Plans

In what has been a fairly badly kept secret locally Lincolnshire Police have announced that a new multi-million pound police station could be built in Nettleham.

An artists impression of the new facility.

The news comes after private security firm G4S was awarded a £200 million contract to provide a host of services to Lincolnshire Police. As part of the deal, G4S would build and run a new state-of-the-art police station.

It is understood that the force's preferred site for the development would be at its existing headquarters in Nettleham, north of Lincoln. In addition, older stations around the county could be replaced.

The project is expected save Lincolnshire Police Authority an estimated £28 million and an eco-friendly design will cut running costs by £5 million over the next ten years.

The 30-cell station, based on a hub-and-spoke design, would house up to 120 staff. It would also be extendable in the event of major incidents or anticipated peaks in arrests and is expected to account for a 'major proportion' of the savings, said G4S.

A formal decision on where the new station will be has not been made. Lincolnshire Police Authority spokesman Alan Hardwick said:

"The chairman of the authority has made it known the site that's favourably under consideration is actually at the headquarters site in Nettleham. 

"The next step is that G4S and ourselves will be preparing plans to go to West Lindsey District Council. 

"It's land we already own and subject to planning permission that's the preferred site. But we have not ruled out alternatives. 

"We are carrying out a review of our entire estate which also includes the south of the county. And we will look very critically at some of our older stations."

It is thought around 544 of nearly 900 full-time civilian employees in the authority could be affected by the deal.

From Sunday, 1st April 2012 G4S will be Lincolnshire Police Authority's partner for other services. This will cover areas such as human resources, information technology, fleet management, custody services and firearms licensing for at least the next ten years. Lincolnshire Police Authority chairman Mr. Barry Young said:

"G4S shares our values and our ambition to maintain and improve services. 

"Crucially, the new strategic partnership will also deliver significant infrastructure investment that will offset the budget reductions called for by the Government. I believe we are leading the way."

Ms Kim Challis, group managing director of G4S Government and Outsourcing Services, said:

"G4S is excited to be partnering with Lincolnshire Police in delivering this landmark programme. 

"We are particularly delighted to have the opportunity to implement many new innovations, such as our purpose-built Bridewell custody suites – the first of which will be completed within a year."

Man Injured in Sudbrooke Crash

A man from Lincoln is seriously injured after his black Peugeot 308 crashed on the A158 Wragby Road in Sudbrooke on Sunday, 29th January 2012.

Police say there were no other vehicles involved in the crash, which took place at 4.20am. The man, whose age is not yet confirmed, was initially taken to Lincoln County Hospital suffering from a head injury. It is understood he was later transferred to a hospital in Sheffield. There were no other occupants in his vehicle.

The A158 Wragby Road was closed until 8.30am. Police are appealing for any witnesses who saw the collision or the Peugeot being driven prior to the incident. Anyone with information should contact the Collision Witness Hotline on 01522 558855.