CHADWELL St Mary residents have raised concerns there could be a “resurgence of criminal activity” if policing levels drop in the town.

Police Community Support Officers who patrol the streets of Chadwell St Mary start and finish work at a housing association office in Linford Road.

But from February 21 this is set to change, with the officers set to now start and finish shifts at Tilbury police station.

Peter Saunders, chairman of Chadwell Community Forum, said he is concerned that if policing levels drop, crime will start to rise.

He has arranged a meeting with the acting inspector at Tilbury police station to discuss his concerns.

Mr Saunders, 57, of Merton Place, said: “I think the actual amount of time spent policing Chadwell will be reduced by two hours per officer per shift.

“This could lead to a resurgence in criminal activity.

“The reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour in Chadwell is seasonal, not permanent, yet if these cuts go ahead we are concerned crime may start to rise again.

“I think the officers starting and finishing at Tilbury is a step backwards – they will be on the streets far less of the time.”

Cllr Gerard Rice, council cabinet member for crime and disorder, said: “Obviously I am very disheartened that policing could drop in Chadwell, but the coalition Government has told us to make these cuts and they will affect the community – we have just got to put our hands up and accept it.

“It is regrettable the PCSOs may be spending less time on the streets, but these cuts will hit communities.”

Chief Insp Paul Moor said: “Officers from the Chadwell St Mary neighbourhood policing team previously worked out of a housing association office not owned by Essex Police, but will now start and end their shift at Tilbury police station so they can be better briefed on local crime issues by their supervisors.

“This is how all other neighbourhood policing teams operate across the whole of Thurrock.

“There will be no reduction in the amount of time officers spend out on the streets, keeping the ward safe and being accessible and visible to residents.

“Officers are available to speak either out on the beat, on their ward mobile or at beat surgeries that they hold regularly.

“If members of the Chadwell community forum have any concerns, they are welcome to speak to myself or any member of the neighbourhood policing team.”