ACTON Police Station front counter has closed for the next five months for refurbishments.

The front counter closed to new arrivals at noon today (April 28) and will relocate to Southall Police Station in order to minimise the gap in public services.

The refurbishment works are taking place as the station's current configuration 'fails to provide a modern policing facility'.

Officers and staff will remain in contact with the public and partners throughout the refurbishment process.

Superintendent James Pigg, of the West Area BCU, said: "The refurbishment of Acton Police Station is a necessary process, and it will ensure the building is brought up to date, providing staff with the facilities and equipment they need to provide the best possible service to our communities.

"I would like to reassure anyone with concerns about this change that the front counter closure is temporary.

"This police station and its 24-hour front counter will re-open as a vastly improved facility as soon as refurbishments have been completed.

"Southall Police Station, which is less than five miles away from our current base at Acton Police Station, will be re-opened as the 24/7 front counter for communities in the local area.

"Our top priority is ensuring members of the public can access the help they need."