The Metropolitan Police has published the full list of front desks set to close across London, breaking a pledge to maintain 24-hour access in every borough. The closures aim to address a £260 million budget shortfall, with 18 stations losing their front counters and only 20 remaining open.
Stations facing closure include Kentish Town, Tottenham, Edmonton, Harrow, Bethnal Green, Dagenham, Chingford, Kensington, Hammersmith, Twickenham, Lavender Hill, Wimbledon, Hayes, and Plumstead. Additionally, four stations with reduced hours—Barking Learning Centre, Church Street, Royalty Studios, and Mitcham—will shut completely.
The plans have sparked political backlash. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp warned Londoners would be less safe, while Lib Dem MP Munira Wilson urged Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to fully fund the force. Labour MP Stella Creasy accused police of avoiding public engagement after Chingford's closure was announced.
Met Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist and Deputy Mayor Kaya Comer-Schwartz will face London Assembly members at an emergency meeting on Wednesday. The Met defends the cuts, stating only 5% of crimes are reported at front counters, and the savings of £7 million will allow more officers on streets.
Paula Dodds of the Met Police Federation criticised the move, arguing it reduces public access and ignores those without technology. The Met insists it will modernise services and boost neighbourhood policing with over 300 additional PCSOs and officers.
