MALDON's new police office will open to the public on Monday with the old building going up for sale.

Essex Police have announced the opening date after weeks of frustrated residents waiting for updates as the existing office is set to close.

The new location will be at Maldon District Council’s offices in Princes Road, to be used as a base to respond to incidents and calls for help and house the local policing team.

The new base will offer a front counter service, staffed by Essex Police employees, from 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and from 8.30am to 4.30pm on Fridays.

As of Monday July 31 the former police station in West Square will close. The building will be put up for sale in the coming months.

Inspector Ronnie Egan, Maldon and Chelmsford District Commander Chief said: “Essex Police is committed to maintaining a police presence in Maldon and I’m delighted that our new base has now opened for business.

“The new location demonstrates the shared commitment of both Essex Police and Maldon District Council to keep our communities safe, protect people from harm and to prevent and detect crime.

“We know people are attached to their police stations, but what is important is my officers’ ongoing ability to operate from Maldon, catch criminals and protect people from harm.

“We know maintaining a local and visible presence is at the heart of how we keep people safe and this new policing base will allow us to do just that.

“I would like to thank Maldon District Council for allowing us to share their accommodation and for their continued support of Essex Police.”

Maldon police station is one of several being sold as the estate is reduced from 80 to approximately 30 buildings.

Essex Police hopes the resources this frees up will enable officers to stay visible in communities for longer, be more accessible, build their specialist capabilities and help keep the people of Essex safe.

Visit www.essex.police.uk