The Metropolitan Police has been pressed to dismiss the possibility of reducing the police unit dedicated to safeguarding the Royal Parks as it grapples with a staggering £450 million budget deficit.
Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has indicated that certain teams, including those protecting the Royal Parks, might face cuts in a “worst-case scenario.”
In December, he warned that the Met might have to reduce its ranks by 2,300 police officers and 400 staff members this year in pursuit of £100 million in efficiency savings.
Richmond Council, which encompasses two Royal Parks—Richmond and Bushy—has vocalized its opposition to any such proposals, arguing that the unique skills of the officers cannot be easily replaced.
The council has prepared a motion to be presented at a meeting on Tuesday, urging the police and the Mayor of London to “secure adequate funding to alleviate the impact on other critical teams in worst-case scenarios.”
The motion also stated: “The council believes that the Royal Parks Police possess specialized knowledge, experience, and expertise that would be impossible for other Metropolitan Police units to replicate.”
The council, led by the Liberal Democrats, is planning to vote on whether to formally express these demands to the Metropolitan Police and the Mayor.
The Royal Parks include eight parks, such as Hyde Park and St James’s Park, along with Brompton Cemetery and Victoria Tower Gardens.
Police personnel ensure the safety of these areas and assist during events like the Changing of the Guard.
The Metropolitan Police commented: “We have been transparent about the financial difficulties we confront and are engaged in constructive discussions with both the mayor and the Home Office to secure the resources necessary for effective policing in London.
“As anticipated, we are meticulously preparing for any difficult decisions we may need to make to align with our future budget constraints, though no definitive decisions have yet been reached.”
Recently, the Mayor of London announced an increase in police funding from both City Hall and the government to help maintain a larger police presence on London’s streets.
A spokesperson added: “The mayor will continue collaborating closely with the new government and the Met Commissioner in advance of the upcoming spending review to advocate for the additional national investment essential for the Met to keep working towards a safer London for all.”
