Ipswich's MP has called for "a more robust approach to policing in the town centre" as he welcomed government funding for three new Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs).

Plans for the new permanent officers were approved by Ipswich Borough Council earlier this week using money received from the Number 10's Shared Prosperity Fund. 

Ipswich Star: Ipswich MP Tom Hunt described the news as a boost for IpswichIpswich MP Tom Hunt described the news as a boost for Ipswich (Image: House of Commons)

MP Tom Hunt, who signed the shared prosperity bid and lobbied the government for the funding, described the news as a "boost" for Ipswich. 

"This of course comes in addition to the Government funding through the safer streets fund," he added. 

"It’s important to note that Suffolk has secured over 130 new officers since 2019 as part of the national uplift in police numbers.

"However, in addition to this, the national police funding formula needs to be looked at so it’s fairer to Suffolk.

Ipswich Star: The funding will see three new officers permanently in the town centre. Credit: NewsquestThe funding will see three new officers permanently in the town centre. Credit: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

"We also need to adopt a more robust approach to policing in the town centre in my view."

The PCSOs will cost a total of £283,500 over two years and the officers will be based in the town centre starting from April 2023.

They will operate from 8am until 6pm, seven days week.