Richmond Council has expressed frustration after the High Court refused permission for a judicial review into the closure of Twickenham Police Station's front counter – the last remaining police front counter in the borough.

The closure in February has left Richmond as one of five London boroughs without any face-to-face police counter service, despite previous assurances from the Mayor of London that every borough would retain one.

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: "We are obviously disappointed by this decision. Our position remains unchanged: Richmond residents should have access to a face-to-face police counter service.

"Richmond is now one of five boroughs in London without one – despite clear promises from the Mayor of London that every borough would retain a front counter.

"For many residents, particularly older or vulnerable people, being able to speak to someone in person matters. It is about accessibility, visibility, and public confidence in local policing.

"We took action because residents deserved to have their voices heard before such an important service was removed. While the court has reached its decision, that does not change the fact that Richmond has lost another visible part of its local policing presence.

"The Council will continue pressing the Met Police and City Hall to properly recognise the needs of Richmond residents and restore accessible front counter provision in the borough."

Richmond Council launched legal action against the Metropolitan Police and the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime following concerns over the lack of public consultation and the impact the closure would have on residents.

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The Council noted that no costs order was made against Richmond Council in the case.

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