The opening of Petersfield’s new police station has been delayed, with its launch being pushed back from May to the summer.

Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Donna Jones visited the site this week to mark the halfway point of the transformation of the old Barclays bank building into a state-of-the-art facility.

The new station aims to bring increased police visibility and a closer connection between officers and the community.

Despite the minor delay in the opening schedule, Ms. Jones said she was “delighted with the progress of the new police station for the people of Petersfield”.

“Policing needs to be in the heart of communities directly serving and engaging with members of the public,” she said.

“Having a new permanent base in Petersfield town centre will increase police visibility and help build the vital relationship between police and communities that underscores British policing.

“I am looking forward to the summer to celebrate its official opening with the community.”

The police station is expected to enhance community interactions and improve service delivery.

Chief Inspector Alex Charge, district commander for East Hampshire, said the facility would bring ”the local policing team back to the town centre”.

“I believe this will have a very positive impact on our ability to engage with the community and provide the best possible service to residents, visitors, and businesses in the area,” he said.