CHANGES in the structure of policing in the New Forest will not change the service at grass roots level.

That is the assurance being given by the Forest's top officer, Superintendent Barry Talbot, as he prepares for his basic command unit (BCU) to become part of a much larger operational command unit (OCU) taking in Test Valley and Eastleigh.

The new Western OCU will include areas as far apart as Barton-on-Sea and the Hampshire/Berkshire boundary four miles south of Newbury.

It will also take in part of the eastern shore of Southampton Water that is in Eastleigh Borough Council's territory.

Southampton, as a unitary authority, will continue to be funded and policed separately.

The proposals follow a review commissioned by Hampshire and Isle of Wight chief constable Paul Kernaghan and are designed to make the force more flexible.

There will be six OCUs to replace 10 BCUs.

The new structure will be headed by a chief superintendent whereas now the BCUs are commanded by superintendents.

Mr Kernaghan said: "The proposal aims to provide Hampshire Constabulary with a better corporate structure and greater capacity to deliver an effective police service to the people of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight."

The next stage for the review team is to consult with staff throughout the force to maximise effectiveness and efficiency.

Detailed proposals and timescale are yet to be determined though Mr Talbot said: "I would expect it to happen in the next 12 months, but whether it happens sooner or later is up to the chief constable."

He paid tribute to the New Forest BCU team saying it was the second best in the force.

Reported crimes there between April and December, 2004, were 1,328 down on the same period in 2003, he said.

But he pointed out that 2003 was worse than 2002.

First published: Feb 1