CUMBRIA’s Chief Constable has pledged to improve front line policing despite a proposal to axe 30 police posts next year.

Craig Mackey said he planned to move officers from backroom to neighbourhood policing roles to counter the effect of £9m in budget cuts over the next three years.

He also warned compulsory redundancies for some ‘back office’ functions could not be ruled out.

“I am firmly committed that our police officers should undertake public facing roles,” said Mr Mackey.

“As a result of these changes the constabulary will end 2009-10 financial year with 30 less police officers, but in a stronger position to tackle crime on our streets from the additional number of officers redeployed to front line duties and a reshaping of our current frontline policing structure.”

The Chief Constable said ‘efficiencies’ and ‘productivity improvements’ would save £3m in 2010-11 while further savings of £5m would be sought in 2011-12 and £1m in 2013-14.

“We have a team in place reviewing all of our structures and it is expected, given the significant changes that are being proposed, to take at least two years to implement.

“Work has already started in our back office functions to make budget savings and be more efficient and effective. The constabulary at all times seeks to avoid compulsory redundancy by considering alternative approaches, controlling recruitment and redeployment, but this does present an increasingly difficult challenge.

“Unfortunately, there is some possibility of compulsory redundancies.

“As part of the reviewing of our structures we are ensuring that we have the right people with the right skills doing the right job.

"This includes reviewing the back office roles that are presently being undertaken by police officers and, where possible, replacing those with police staff.

“Cumbria Constabulary is a high performing force and these changes will further strengthen our ability to ensure the county remains one of the safest places to live, work and visit.”

Cumbria Police Authority approved the budget proposals when members met yesterday.

Chairman Ray Cole said: “The reality is that policing, in common with every other part of the public service, is going to face huge financial pressures over the next few years with the prospect of significant reductions in government funding.”