London police plan to close 18 front desks to save funds, aiming to boost street presence.

The Metropolitan Police plans to close 18 front desks in London police stations by the end of the year to address a £260 million funding gap. This will reduce the number of public-facing counters from 37 to 20, saving £7 million and 3,752 hours of officer time monthly. The changes aim to increase police presence on the streets. The final list of closures is subject to community engagement and planning. Alternative methods to contact police will be provided where desks close.