The former Llanelli police station and Custody is to close and be sold, in line with wider changes that will modernise and improve the policing service in Carmarthenshire.
Now that the brand-new, purpose-built Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police base at Dafen is fully operational (in May 2023), the former police station in the town centre is no longer operationally required.
The Neighbourhood Policing Team will continue operating from their town centre base, ensuring a visible presence and effective engagement with residents and businesses.
The closure is part of a bigger change programme across Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police, where estates, technology, and the equipment available to officers and staff are coming together to improve policing and the service to communities.
Chief Constable Dr Richard Lewis said:
“This decision came after careful evaluation to make best use of resources and deliver an effective police service that meets the needs and expectations of our communities.
“The new, purpose-built police base at Dafen is a step forward in modernising and improving our services, enabling officers to continue their work with greater efficiency and effectiveness.
“The decision to close and sell the old station has also been made with the best interests of taxpayers and the community in mind, as the current station is no longer fit for purpose or necessary.
“I want to reassure the local community that Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police is committed to maintaining the same level of service and support for our local communities, and residents and business in Llanelli will see no difference.
“Your local neighbourhood policing team will continue to provide a visible presence and effective engagement with residents and businesses.”
The building at Old Castle Road, Llanelli, will go to market in the coming days.
Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said: “Historically, talk of police bases moving or stations closing and being sold, has triggered a narrative of police withdrawing from communities, fears about response times, and concerns about an increase in crime and disorder.
“However, I have been reassured by Chief Constable Dr Richard Lewis, that there will be no difference in the level of service to the public in Llanelli as a result of this estates decision.
“In May this year, we opened a multimillion, new sustainable and purpose-built Police base and Custody Suite on the outskirts of Llanelli in Dafen. This new facility for Carmarthenshire is a step forward in modernising and improving our services.
“As Police and Crime Commissioner, I want to assure the public that despite the difficult decision to close and sell the station, our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities remains our priority.
“I recognise that change can be challenging, but please be assured that this strategic move will allow Dyfed-Powys Police to allocate resources more efficiently and will enhance their policing efforts.
“In today’s digital age, we are fortunate to have various channels through which people can connect with Dyfed-Powys Police. In addition to phone calls, we encourage people to explore online methods and social media platforms used by the Force. These platforms often provide valuable updates, crime prevention advice, and community engagement opportunities, allowing people to connect and engage with the police and stay informed about local issues.
“By utilising these alternative channels, we can collectively contribute to more responsive and efficient policing, allowing Dyfed-Powys Police to focus on critical situations while still addressing the concerns and needs of our community.
“If anyone has questions or concerns, I encourage you to reach out to my office. We value your input and appreciate your ongoing support in ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities.”
Local communities can contribute to more responsive and efficient policing by using online methods of contact. If you need the police when it is not an emergency, you can contact them through a direct message on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, online, by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, or by calling 101. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908.
Follow your Neighbourhood Policing Teams at Llanelli Police on Facebook and @DPPLlanelli on Twitter for all policing news, appeals and notification of engagement events.
If a crime is in progress, or there is a danger to life, risk of serious injury, or damage to property, always dial 999.
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