National Police Air Service Proposal

[Humberside]

As briefly mentioned in the progress thread

ESSEX’S police helicopter could be moved to Southend Airport as part of plans for a new “borderless” air service.

The Association of Chief Police Officers wants to slash the number of police helicopters and bases by a third in a bid to save more than £14million.

The Essex helicopter is based at Boreham – in the centre of the county – but could be moved to Southend as part of the association’s proposals for a new National Police Air Service.

A spokesman for Essex Police said the force has been working with others on a trial project for the proposal.

www.echo-news.co.uk/news/8477020.Essex_Police_helicopter_could_move_to_Southend_Airport/

[Thames Gateway]

Is it true hat this is not being progressed as the site is considered "too far east"?

[jon]

According to Southend Radio this is back on !

www.southendradio.com/news/news.asp

Southend News
New Police National Air Service To Have Base In Southend

One of the bases for a new national air service for the police will be in Southend.

Across the country the number of police helicopters is being slashed to save 15 million pounds.

The new service would be responsible for a particular area instead of each force having its own helicopter.

[Thames Gateway]

In the eventuality, this didn't happen, with NPAS combining several flights, they now operate from North Weald for the Essex and London areas.