Shaftesbury Town Council has formally written a joint letter to the Chief Constable of Dorset Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner, along with Gillingham Town Council and Stalbridge Town Council, to request an increase in the number of dedicated police officers serving the towns and their surrounding areas.
The decision was unanimously passed at the Council meeting held on 16th December 2025 and follows consultation with Gillingham Town Council and Stalbridge Town Council who are the co-signatories to the letter. This follows growing concern among residents regarding visible policing levels and recent increases in property crime including burglary and shoplifting, anti-social behaviour, and speeding.
A Need for Visible and Consistent Policing
The letter highlights the need for a more consistent and visible police presence to deter crime, build community confidence, and allow officers to effectively engage with residents and local businesses.
“The safety and security of our residents is the number one priority for Shaftesbury Town Council,” said Councillor Andy Hollingshead, who has been leading on this campaign. “We recognise the challenging resource environment facing Dorset Police, and that historically North Dorset is a safe area, but the current level of dedicated local policing is simply insufficient to meet the needs of our growing communities. I am grateful to Gillingham Town Council and Stalbridge Town Council in joining with us and we urge the Chief Constable and the Commissioner to provide the resources necessary to ensure our towns continue to remain a safe and pleasant place to live and work.”
Council Action and Next Steps
The Council is requesting:
• The allocation of additional beat officers dedicated solely to the Shaftesbury locality.
• A plan for increased visibility and patrol frequency within Shaftesbury, Gillingham, Stalbridge and surrounding areas.
• Improved community engagement efforts to address resident and businesses concerns directly which may include re-opening the police station at Shaftesbury as a patrol base.
The Council looks forward to a constructive dialogue and a positive response to this urgent community requirement.