Jess Brown-Fuller calls to reopen Chichester Custody Centre to boost frontline policing

Jess Brown-Fuller has launched a petition calling for the reopening of Chichester Custody Centre, warning that its continued closure is taking police officers off the streets and away from the communities they serve. Jess has urged the Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner to commit to reopening the facility and investing in local policing infrastructure.

Since the custody centre closed in 2021, officers must transport detainees to Worthing or Crawley, often facing a round trip of up to two hours. It's been suggested this is taking officers away from policing in their local communities.

The move from Jess comes after the securing of the future of Chichester Crown Court, with the Government recently confirming its permanent status. Jess is now arguing that local justice services must be joined up, claiming that reopening the custody centre would ensure the police, courts and communities are better connected and operating efficiently.

Jess has said:

“Our local policing resources have become far too stretched. Day-in, day-out, I hear from constituents who are frustrated about the lack of police presence in their area. Officers want to be out in our communities keeping people safe, not stuck on long journeys because of missing local facilities.

“The closure of Chichester Custody Centre has created unnecessary delays and taken valuable police time away from frontline duties. Reopening it would be a straightforward way to improve efficiency and strengthen local policing.

“With Chichester Crown Court regaining its permanent status, now is the time to ensure our justice system is properly connected and working for local people. That’s why I am calling for the custody centre to be reopened without delay.

“If you also believe justice and policing should be local, please sign our petition here.”