Concern over traffic police reduction

In the last 10 years the number in the region has fallen from 230 to 190.

Across the country the number of dedicated police traffic officers has halved in the last decade.

Although the reduction in Devon and Cornwall has not been as steep, the council is still concerned.

Conflicting demands

Now the authority is asking the Local Government Association and Association of Police Authorities whether reduced road policing is a national concern.

"Ultimately, it is a matter for the chief constable and senior officers as to how staff are deployed," said Sergeant Andrew Webber, from Devon and Cornwall Police.

"There are conflicting demands and it is difficult for chief constables to balance their budgets.

"There are difficult decisions to be made."

Serious road injuries in the force area have reduced by 42% in the last 10 years.

But there has been little success in reducing fatalities and Devon and Cornwall has the 11th highest toll in England and Wales.

The issue goes before the council's environment and economy scrutiny committee next week.