WEST Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion has invested £460,000 in the force’s firearms unit to carry out a range of operational changes.
The cash will be used to double the number of Firearms Enquiry Officers, who carry out important research and background checks.
New positions have also been created to ensure greater oversight of cases to speed up the process.
Changes will also see the roll-out of bespoke training for new roles within the department, ensuring recruits are best equipped to understand the latest statutory guidance and systems.
Mr Campion said:
“I hear regularly from residents and local MPs about the firearms licensing delays that many in our shooting communities are experiencing.
“I am listening and remain committed to ensuring the additional investment I have made available to the force is speeding up the process while maintaining a focus on public safety.
“I welcome the changes being introduced and will use all the powers available to me to support and challenge the Chief Constable on progress over the coming months.”
Ch Supt Gareth Morris added:
“West Mercia Police covers a vast rural area with the highest number of firearms and shotgun certificate holders in the country.
“We welcome the investment in our Firearms Licensing Unit to continue to progress improvements in the process and ensure the highest-level scrutiny to firearms licensing.”
