THE RE-OPENING of several Gwent police stations by Ian Johnston, the local police and crime commissioner (PCC) is a bold decision that effectively reverses cuts made to front desk services at the seven stations (out of 17) that were closed to the public back in 2012 (with the loss of 19 jobs).

Now Gwent Police are reopening stations in Caerphilly, Chepstow, Maindee, Monmouth, Pontypool, Risca and Ystrad Mynach.

Wisely the restoration of front counter services will be reviewed after 12 months and levels of use will also be monitored. I for one, hope that this bold step works out, and some of our communities can retain their (open) police stations.

Taking a long-term view, consideration should be given to our emergency service (Police, Fire and Ambulance) developing shared facilities, something that could help improve response times across the board, save money and provide a welcome emergency service presence in our smaller towns.

Jonathan T Clark Allt-yr-yn Heights Newport