‘Divisional Commanders’ are to be appointed in each of Lancashire Constabulary’s three main policing areas in order to improve accountability and delivery of local policing services.

The Chief Superintendents will be based in local policing areas in the East, South and West of the county.

Their role will be to focus specifically on the delivery of place-based policing and to forge stronger partnerships with their local communities and other local partner agencies.

The move follows a review of structures, which included seeking the views of staff and partners, by new Chief Constable, Chris Rowley.

A rigorous recruitment process is currently ongoing to ensure the right people are placed within each division from 1 September.

Commenting on the move, Mr. Rowley said: “Putting Commanders back into our Divisions will increase ownership and accountability and enable us to build even stronger links with our local communities.

“Having had the opportunity to travel around Lancashire and meet Chief Executives and Members of Parliament during my first four months in office, I know that the reintroduction of Commanders will be very much welcomed.

“I am extremely excited to see the commanders return to divisions and watch them build upon the good work already underway to fight crime, protect people and keep our communities safe.”

Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Andrew Snowden said: “This is an example of what I have been pushing for, ensuring that local policing has the ability to focus on issues that matter most to people, where they live. I'm pleased that the Chief Constable is strengthening the ability of each policing division to tackle the unique challenges within their areas and help address local concerns.

"With hundreds of new police officers being recruited and getting out onto our streets to keep people safe, the reintroduction of divisional commanders will ensure accountability against what the Chief Constable and myself want to see, which is criminals off our streets, and the people of Lancashire feeling safer.

“My message remains a simple one, I am on your side. I will support the force in cracking down on criminals, making sure all of Lancashire’s areas and communities feel protected and work with the Chief Constable on the issues that matter to people, such as anti-social behaviour and getting tough on reoffending.”