IPSWICH Police Station's front reception is set to close during part of the night for the first time, it was revealed today.The move comes after an analysis found an average of just five people walked through the doors between midnight and 7am last year – and the majority had issues that could have been dealt with over the phone.

IPSWICH Police Station's front reception is set to close during part of the night for the first time, it was revealed today.

The move comes after an analysis found an average of just five people walked through the doors between midnight and 7am last year – and the majority had issues that could have been dealt with over the phone.

Chief superintendent Geoff Munns, commander for the Ipswich area, said: "The decision to revise the late night opening hours of the front reception makes perfect sense in terms of efficiency and has absolutely no effect on our operational capacity.

"The station continues to be a base from which officers carry out their duties and offer assistance, 24 hours a day.

"People can still get in touch with their local officers, report matters to the police or ask for advice at our reception during its new opening hours."

He added reception staff had been kept fully informed of developments, which would not lead to any job losses.

The changes, set to come into force in March, will see the Elm Street station open from 7am to midnight, from Sunday to Wednesday, and from 7am to 2am, on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Outside these times, people requiring police assistance should telephone 01473 613500 or, in an emergency, ring 999.

A dedicated telephone, covered by CCTV, will soon be installed outside the front reception, giving people a direct line to Force Headquarters, in Martlesham, at times when it is closed.