West Midlands Police urged to reopen police station in Quinton after drive-by shooting

Hundreds of concerned residents of a Birmingham neighbourhood want their local police station to be re-opened. They say that the area has seen an increase in crime since the closure of the police station.

One resident started a petition to urge West Midlands Police to re-open the station in Quinton - which has been vacant since March 2019. The venue was initially promised to the community but for sale signs went up earlier this year. It was among the 20 police stations closed by West Midlands Police after being declared as “surplus” in a bid to slim down the force and cut costs.

However, the move has not been taken well with residents that have been affected. Quinton residents said they are terrified of allowing their children play outside or leaving the house themselves due to a recent spate of crimes. On September 10, West Midlands Police were called before 5.45pm after shots were fired on Quinton Road West. Three men in balaclavas on scrambler style e-scooters shot at a moving vehicle. No one was injured, but it has left residents fearful.

What Quinton residents said about the police station re-opening

More than 300 residents have signed the petition. Quinton resident Mike Clarke, who started the petition, wrote: “In light of recent events, it has become increasingly crucial for the Quinton police station to recommence operations. This will greatly benefit the community by bolstering police presence and consequently curbing crime within the vicinity. Fostering a more profound relationship between the police force and the public is essential, as it will guarantee their safety, demonstrate unwavering commitment, and emphasize that these priorities take precedence.”

Several other residents took to social media demanding that their area be made safer again by reopening the police station. One resident said: “This is why we needed the police station to stay open.”

A former resident said: “I grew up in Quinton and visit regularly to see family. The community really needs this police station.”

Another added: “So glad we moved out recently after living in Quinton for over 60 years. So sad to see a one time very much sought after area deteriorate so rapidly.” A concerned parent wrote: “Oh my god my son is not goin out again.” West Midlands Police have been contacted for their comment.