Faversham’s police officers will start their day in Sittingbourne, it has been revealed.

Police chiefs announced on Monday that after reporting to Sittingbourne police station to be briefed, neighbourhood officers will only then be deployed to Faversham.

Senior officers moved to reassure the public that Faversham police station will remain open acting as a base for police community support officers (PCSOs).

So-called response patrols will continue to respond to emergency calls.

Chief inspector Tony Henley, district commander for Swale, said: “I am well aware of the fact Swale is a unique and diverse community with three towns that require very different policing.

“Using Sittingbourne as an operational hub, we can evaluate on a daily basis where the need is greatest for our teams of neighbourhood officers.

“If, for example, there are a number of incidents in Faversham on any given day, our sergeants and inspectors will deploy a team of PCs to go and meet that demand.

“This is a much more fluid and flexible way of responding to what is in front of us on a daily basis and, I believe, gives my officers the best opportunity to provide the quality service I demand of us.”

Bosses say Faversham will also be served by a dedicated team of PCSOs whose role will be focused on dealing with anti-social behaviour, patrolling and listening and responding to public concerns.

It is anticipated these plans will be in place by the end of next month.