POLICE officers who respond to 999 calls will no longer be based at Canvey and Rochford police stations as they have all moved to Rayleigh.

The Essex force claims the move will give residents a better and more efficient service. However, politicians and residents remain sceptical.

The changes come into effect from today.

All 80 response officers will now be based at Rayleigh, working five shifts to provide 24/7 cover and will spend their time out on the beat responding to incidents as they happen.

Police officials claim, due to their small numbers, some of the teams were previously being left with as little as two officers due to sickness, or annual leave.

So it is hoped by amalgamating the response teams for Castle Point, Rochford and Rayleigh, there will be more officers on throughout evenings, weekends and the early hours of the morning.

Rochford Chief Insp Glen Westley and Chief Insp Paul Howell, Castle Point’s top cop, claim the average man on the street won’t notice the difference.

Chief Insp Westley said: “I can reassure all members of the community in Castle Point and Rochford that coverage and response to all incidents will not be affected by these changes.

“We are confident there will be increased visibility across all parts of the districts and we believe it will be easier to ensure we can provide officers in the places they are needed at the right time allowing us to provide a prompt response.”

However, despite the move, neighbourhood policing teams will continue to work out of the police stations in Rochford and Canvey.

These teams solve crime, but are split into beats where they work closely with the community to cut offences and improve life for residents.

They don’t usually respond to emergency calls.