A Community conversation event focused on firearms licensing is taking place in Hereford on Wednesday 2 August from 6pm to 8pm.
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion has received more than 60 pieces of correspondence from residents over the past 18 months disappointed with the length of time it’s taking to get a new or renew a firearms licence.
In response to concerns raised, the PCC announced in March 2023 that he is investing £200,000 to enable additional capacity within the firearms licensing unit, through a variety of mechanisms, aimed at delivering a faster and more convenient service without compromising public protection and safety.
While the benefits of this investment are yet to be fully felt by residents, the event is an opportunity for the shooting community to speak to the PCC and his team, senior officers from West Mercia Police including Chief Inspector Callie Bradley and local members from The British Association for Shooting and Conservation.
The latest Community conversation, following events in Pershore and Kington earlier in the year, will be held at the Kindle Centre, Belmont Road, Hereford, HR2 7JE.
PCC John Campion said: “I am aware of the frustration many residents from our shooting communities have over delays in getting new or renewing firearms licences.
“With the largest quantity of firearm holders in England and Wales, I am committed to addressing this issue in West Mercia with £200,000 already being invested into making improvements.
“I do understand that this huge level of funding is not currently being felt by many, so as their voice in policing, I want to speak and listen to them to understand their views and experiences and reassure them that change is happening.”
