LAUNCESTON police station's custody suite is due to close in October this year, Devon and Cornwall Police have announced.

The Post previously reported that a review of police custody provision across Devon and Cornwall was being carried out, with a number of proposals being considered, including the potential closure of Launceston custody centre.

Last week, a spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the centre will close.

They said: "The Force is continually looking at ways to modernise our service, and review our estate, across the region.

"As a result of recent reviews and following discussions with the Trade Unions, the Police Federation, and formal consultation with our staff, the Force will be closing the Launceston custody unit based at Launceston station."

This closure will save the Force £39-million over the next four years.

The spokesperson said: "Custody suites are expensive operations and closing this suite along with other elements of the review, will save almost £700,000 per year.

"This change will ensure our custody service becomes more financially efficient; a vital contribution to the ongoing savings required over the coming years."

The closure means 16 posts will go at Launceston — four sergeant roles, six detention officers, two video witness roles and four senior detention officers.

The average travelling distances to another custody centre, for those previously using Launceston, will increase by approximately four miles.

The police spokesperson said the impact on the public 'will be minimal' and operational policing 'will continue across the area'.

"I would like to emphasise that the police station in Launceston is not closing as part of this review and there are no plans to do so at this time; however the Force is continually looking at ways to modernise our service and review our estate.

"At this time we have a final implementation date for the closure of Launceston custody of October 2015.

"We remain committed to provide the best possible service to the public."

Speaking at a meeting of the town council on Friday, PC Steve Stoppard, the neighbourhood beat manager for Launceston, said the alternative custody suites for the area are now Charles Cross at Plymouth, Newquay and Barnstaple, but said there were 'many avenues' open to the police.

He said: "Please remember Launceston is still a non-designated police station."

People can be held at non-designated locations for short terms of custody.

He added the 'avenues open' to the police include restorative justice and street bail: "We will adapt our policing style to fit our situation."

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.