POLICE in Weymouth and Portland are on the move.

Front-line officers and staff who used to make up the East and West Weymouth sections will now be based under one roof at Western Divisional headquarters in Radipole Lane.

The former West Weymouth police station next door will remain open to the public for general inquiries while the Dorchester Road site will be used as a 'major incident suite' and will be a base for some staff.

The Portland Safer Neighbourhood Team headed by PC Mike Holman will remain at the office on the island.

The move to divisional headquarters will lead to 'better integration and consistent delivery of policing services,' according to Inspector Peter Meteau, the section commander for the Weymouth and Portland area.

He explained that the merge of East and West Weymouth police will improve performance by 'promoting efficient working practices through closer working relationships between departments.' Insp Meteau said: "Dorset Police is committed to providing a high quality policing service. It is crucial that we continue to rise to the challenges of modern policing and changing demands.

"Delivering quality, effective policing in Weymouth and Portland requires a joined-up, co-ordinated approach."

Phase one of the merge began in October 2006 and involved some internal structural changes to the headquarters building. Phase two has brought together staff and officers under one roof.

The headquarters will house all the core policing functions and is said to be ideally located for operational purposes.

Because it is away from the often congested town centre, police said it provides improved accessibility for residents.The central enquiry office is open to the public every day of the week. The opening times are Sunday -Thursday from 7am until midnight. Fridays and Saturdays from 7am until 1am.

For non-urgent inquiries and to contact your community beat manager call Dorset Police on 01305 222222.If a crime is in progress or your personal safety is at risk dial 999.