CRIPPLING budget cuts could lead to the shutdown of police stations across Dorset.

The Daily Echo understands at least six are being considered for closure as police chiefs battle to find savings.

Main stations such as Bournemouth and Poole will not be affected but smaller buildings, which do not open round the clock, could face the axe.

Those include Boscombe, Wimborne, Swanage, Verwood, Sturminster Newton and Lyme Regis. Dorset Police has decided to sell off the former Highcliffe police station, which is already closed to the public.

The possible closures are among a number of cost-cutting measures under consideration including grounding the force helicopter, a recruitment freeze and cuts to overtime budgets.

Funding for the Dorset Safety Camera Partnership, now Dorset Road Safe, has already been slashed by nearly £1 million and officers could be forced to retire after 30 years’ service.

The police stations being considered for closure already have limited opening hours. Boscombe closes at 4.30pm,Wimborne is shut at weekends and Lyme Regis is open only on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am until 1pm.

A Dorset police spokesman said: “As part of our ongoing review we are considering all areas of our business, including our estate.

“We strive to ensure that all of our sites are as efficient as possible and in the most suitable locations. We will report our findings to Dorset Police Authority next February. The authority has already agreed that Highcliffe enquiry office will be disposed of.”

He added: “The force investment in mobile data enables officers to work from a wide variety of locations and still have direct access to police information systems.

“This will make the service less reliant on physical buildings and increase public visibility and access.”

Boscombe West councillor Phil Stanley-Watts said he plans to raise a question about whether Boscombe Police station is safe at next Tuesday’s Full Council meeting.

He said: “The implications for Boscombe are very grave if they close it. I think they should really consult the people within the Boscombe area before they make any decision.

“I shall be fighting for the police station to remain open.”