GMPA agrees GMP budget

Greater Manchester Police Authority (GMPA) has called on Greater Manchester Police to ensure the efficient and effective use of resources so that more focus can be put on neighbourhood policing.

The recent full Authority meeting considered the budget for 2010/2011 and how, with the Force, it can deliver the policing plan through continued improvements in performance and increased value for money.

At the centre of the Force’s plans are proposals for a minimum of 200 officers to be moved from response duties to neighbourhood teams.

In addition, 200 posts currently undertaken by police officers will be carried out by police staff. These posts are all in supporting roles that do not need the skills and powers of a police officer. It is anticipated the move will bring savings of £1.2m.

GMPA also required the Force to find further savings to allow a further 100 officers to move from other posts into neighbourhood policing and protecting vulnerable people. Further savings are also necessary through reducing overtime costs by £3.2m, and reducing corporate budgets. This will include developing more efficient use of a reduced vehicle fleet and making energy savings.

The budget protects the 104 officers which were assigned to priority neighbourhoods in 2008 as part of a three-year precept agreement with the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA).

GMPA Chairman Cllr Paul Murphy said: “We have worked hard to present a balanced budget which not only protects the frontline and puts more officers in neighbourhoods but also represents value for money and enables continuously improving police services.

“I would like to reassure communities that the budget agreed today achieves this. It will enable GMP to deliver an efficient and effective police service and the Authority will closely scrutinise it's delivery to ensure this is the case.”

Chief Constable Peter Fahy said: “People rightly expect us to make best use of the budget we are given. The coming year will see big changes to the way we police Greater Manchester. This means more officers in local neighbourhood policing teams to tackle issues rather than continuing to rush from job to job.

“We will maintain our record in tackling serious crime but also want to be known for successfully dealing with local crime and anti-social behaviour issues. These are the issues that really matter to local people.

“During the coming year we have to continue to cut crime and ensure the efficient and effective use of resources so that they are focused on the frontline.”