POLICING in Teignbridge is about to undergo a major revamp from early in the new year. Currently, the district is jointly managed by a chief inspector who also has responsibility for the South Hams and West Devon. From January 8, these areas are splitting, with Chief Insp Mark Moore, who was recently appointed to Newton Abbot, in charge of Teignbridge, and a chief inspector in charge of both the other areas. The changes mean additional resources for the area, and Teignbridge will benefit from a dedicated Detective Inspector – Steve White. The three sector inspectors for Newton Abbot, Teignmouth and Dawlish, and Chudleigh and Ashburton, will remain. Jonathan Perry at Teignmouth and Dawlish, David Nott at Chudleigh and Ashburton, and Andy Dower, who after a short spell away, makes a quick return to Newton Abbot. Mr Moore said it was great news for Teignbridge. 'It has allowed us to align operational policing with partnership working throughout the district. The focus will be on the service we will provide to the public every day,' he said. Acting Chief Superintendent Barry Marsden, Commander of the South and West Devon Basic Command Unit, said the force was aiming to build on the success of its neighbourhood policing services and deliver them to national standards. 'The changes will enable the chief inspectors to work more closely with the district councils to progress closer partnership working and identify solutions to both the causes and symptoms of crime and disorder,' said Mr Marsden. Teignbridge Council executive spokesman, Cllr David Howe, said the district authority was an active member of the newly-formed South Devon and Dartmoor Partnership and looked forward to working closely with all its partners during the forthcoming months in order to ensure community safety remains a priority. The changes take place while there are seven Police Community Support Officers working in Ashburton, Chudleigh, Dawlish, Newton Abbot and Teignmouth. By March, the area will be swamped by a further 21.
