Main points in the response received from the local Portswood police about the location of the Beat Surgery in Portswood Broadway at 11am on Monday 17 August 2026

“I appreciate the comments regarding the visibility and accessibility of the location. Whilst community engagement is one of the primary aims of these surgeries, the choice of location was also somewhat strategic. The area around the church and adjacent walkway has historically experienced issues with loitering and anti social behaviour, and part of our intention was to provide a visible police presence in that particular location as a deterrent, whilst also offering an opportunity for residents to speak with us.”

“That said, I fully understand the concerns raised about the location being difficult to find and less accessible to members of the public who may have wished to attend. Thankfully, recent work appears to have had a positive impact on the issues previously affecting that area. If that trend continues, we will certainly be able to consider alternative locations in future that offer greater visibility, and footfall.”