Funding boost for Lincolnshire Police is welcomed by Labour councillors
A significant programme of investment by Lincolnshire Police has been welcomed by Labour councillors in East Lindsey.
The force says that Lincs 2030 is designed to “modernise police services, strengthen public safety and build a resilient organisation for the future”.
It follows confirmation of long-term funding stability and includes plans for more officers, more police staff, expanded neighbourhood policing and new specialist teams.
In total, it will mean 136 additional roles within the force, increasing police capacity in the county to about 1,240.
Coun Claire Arnold, the Labour group leader on East Lindsey District Council and a former Mayor of Mablethorpe, says the programme should be a huge boost for policing across the county, including in the Louth and Horncastle areas.
She said: “I am absolutely thrilled to welcome this landmark investment in Lincolnshire Police, which marks a real turning point for our county.
"Lincolnshire has faced years of under-funding that has stretched our dedicated officers and staff to their limits.
"Our communities deserve better, and this Lincs 2030 programme will make a real difference with more officers, faster response-times and greater safety for residents and visitors.
"I want to congratulate everyone who fought to make this happen. This is something to celebrate.”
The funding uplift will change the way the force is able to operate. Priorities for improvement will be in protecting vulnerable people, providing enhanced video calls, upgrading digital and data capability, improving intelligence and forensics, and enabling the creation of a new dedicated fraud team.
The Lincs 2030 programme has been made possible because the government has confirmed increased funding for Lincolnshire for the next three years, and the stability that comes from this secured funding has allowed the force to invest.
Chief Constable Paul Gibson believes the programme marks a key moment for Lincolnshire policing after a prolonged period of financial constraint.
He said: “We now have the opportunity to invest with confidence in the areas that will make the greatest difference to our communities.
“This programme ensures we are better equipped, better resourced and better prepared to meet both current and future demands.”
Coun Ros Jackson, a Labour member of East Lindsey District Council who represents the Louth Trinity ward, also praised the announcement.
She said: “Increases in drug crime and anti-social behaviour in Louth have concerned me in recent years.
"This new funding, and the emphasis on protecting vulnerable people, will reassure communities that the police will be there for them.
"It will help those most likely to be affected by violence and drugs. The Labour government is ending cost-cutting measures that endangered residents.”