Most residents across Wiltshire and Swindon wish to keep local policing
Public opinion has been heard over plans to create larger regional police forces
Last updated 7th Oct 2026
A survey has shown that the majority of residents in Wiltshire and Swindon are in favour of retaining their local police force, rather than merging into a larger one.
The survey, which was carried out by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), recieved 1,100 respones. It was launched in August to hear public opinion on the Government's police reform proposals which would result in the 43 police forces in England and Wales being replaced by fewer but larger regional organisations.
Almost two thirds (66%) of those that responded to the survey believe that Wiltshire should keep it's own police force. They demonstrated a wish for neighbourhood policing to still be prioritised with four in five respondents saying this was "very important."
Three quarters of those who answered the survey believe that the proposed plans would lead to lead to the new regional forces having less knowledge on their local communities.
Other concerns included the new force being less responsive to local priorities, worsened community engagement and a less visible police force.
Philip Wilkinson, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire said that the public response to these proposals will be taken into account. "Throughout the survey, residents consistently highlighted the importance of local knowledge, visible neighbourhood policing, strong community relationships and accountability to local people.
"As discussions around police reform continue nationally, it is essential that the views of Wiltshire and Swindon residents are represented and taken into account. These results will help inform my ongoing engagement with Government and policing partners as proposals develop further."
However, the survey did highlight some of benefits that the proposals could bring, including stronger specialist policing, such as dealing with cybercrime or firearms. And almost half of respondents believe it could create more efficient services.