A PROPOSAL to reduce opening hours at Barnard Castle police station could be challenged depending on the views of residents.

Teesdale district councillor Newton Wood said that he was interested in residents' response to the county-wide measures, which include shutting the town's police station to the public between 6pm on Fridays and 8am on Mondays.

On weekdays, the public counter would open between 8am and 6pm.

Coun Wood, who is chairman of the overview and scrutiny committee, said: "Currently the Barnard Castle office is open 8am to 8pm.

"I would like to ask members of the public if there would be a case of conflict if this proposed procedure was in place and is in the best interest of them?

"From an overview and scrutiny point of view, if there is public concern about this and residents feel some of the services have been withdrawn then it could be challenged. We have the right to scrutinise public services."

A letter will also be sent to Durham Constabulary raising councillors' concerns about the lost property facility and the Shop Watch and Pub Watch schemes.

"One of the main concerns is for people who work through the day and are only able to get to the police office after working hours," said Coun Wood. "If someone has a driving offence they wouldn't be able to bring in their driving documents if they have been working through the day."

The proposals are part of a review of the force's structure and staffing but a force spokesman stressed police stations were not closing.

"We are talking about the reduced opening of front office inquiry desks to which members of the public have walk-in access," he said.

"This will save in excess of £100,000 a year, enough to pay for another five officers."

Coun Wood disagreed and said: "A saving of £100,000 a year assumes that each officer would cost £20,000 a year. Officers are paid in excess of that so the saving would be far less. It is misinformation."

Residents can contact Coun Wood on 01833 637532.