A CHIEF inspector is in top-level negotiations with district council bosses to increase police presence in the area, Maldon’s MP has revealed.

Maldon MP John Whittingdale has revealed Essex Police’s chief inspector, Steve Scott-Haynes, is in negotiations with Maldon District Council to identify more space within its offices for police officers.

Roger Hirst, Essex police, fire and crime commissioner, was asked by the Conservative MP what is being done to increase the police’s presence in the Maldon district.

He informed Mr Whittingdale that the special constabulary support in the area has grown and continues to be increased.

There are 35 local policing team officers and 15 special constables using the council offices as a permanent office.

The old police station in West Square closed in 2017, with the force’s new base opening in the district council offices soon afterwards.

Negotiations are being led by head of estates at Essex Police for a doubling of the available space and plans have been drawn up for how this space will be used, the MP says.

Mr Whittingdale said: “I am committed to making our constituency a safer place and I am pleased that steps are being taken by Essex Police to facilitate this, by increasing the number of police in our area.”