TOWN councils in North Dorset are raising concerns over what they describe as inadequate police coverage in their communities.

Shaftesbury Town Council and Gillingham Town Council are preparing a joint letter to Dorset’s chief constable and Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) David Sidwick, calling for improved visibility and support from local policing teams.

The final wording will be agreed at full council meetings this month and shared with The New Blackmore Vale.

PCC Sidwick said he welcomed the councils’ concerns and urged residents to continue engaging with policing authorities.

“My door is always open to any member of the public, councillor, or elected representative,” he said. “I take this very seriously and always strive to attend any local or town council meeting I’m invited to.

“I know Dorset Police remain committed to maintaining a strong and visible presence in our rural areas, and I’m overseeing investment in new technology, local engagement initiatives, and neighbourhood policing to ensure officers remain connected to the communities they serve. Everyone in Dorset should feel safe and supported.”

Dorset Police say plans are underway to expand community contact points (CCPs) in the area – drop-in locations where residents can speak directly with officers and share intelligence.

A police spokesman added: “In addition to the neighbourhood officer, there are patrol policing teams, specialist operations departments and the dedicated Rural Crime Team.

“The force is proposing the use of a tactical CCP. This will strengthen the team’s understanding of local concerns and assist in taking targeted enforcement action where necessary.

“The new Home Office-backed Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee will also bring additional officers to Dorset. North and East Dorset are set to see a significant boost, with one sergeant already dedicated to North Dorset and a new constable assigned to each of Shaftesbury, Gillingham, and Sturminster Newton.”

According to the latest data on Police UK, the most reported crimes in North Dorset Rural during September 2025 were violence and sexual offences (49), anti-social behaviour (17), criminal damage and arson (13) and burglary (9).

Both town councils say they will release more information once the joint letter is finalised. Gillingham councillors meet this evening (December 8), while Shaftesbury will discuss the issue on December 16.