Based at Twickenham Police Station, the move will leave Richmond as one of only five London boroughs without any in-person counter.

The authority launched legal action against the Met Police and Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime over the closure in December.

The Met Police is working to fill a £260 million funding gap.

Radio Jackie has contacted the Mayor of London’s office for comment.

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: “This is a deeply concerning decision.

“Residents are losing the very last place they can go to speak to a police officer face-to-face in this borough. For many, especially vulnerable people and those without easy online access, this is not just inconvenient – it is unsafe.

“Our concern is simple,” Councillor Roberts continued. “Decisions of this scale must take residents’ needs into account. Closing the last front counter before these proceedings are complete undermines public confidence in policing and risks making already vulnerable residents feel cut off from support.

“Front counters are about more than just numbers or footfall,” said Councillor Roberts “They are about trust, reassurance, and accessibility. Richmond residents deserve a visible, accessible police presence in their community.

“We are not resisting change – we support modern, effective policing,” Councillor Roberts added. “But change must be lawful, transparent, and considerate of the people it affects. Removing the last front counter without proper consultation fails on every count.”

The Council says it will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates on the judicial review process.

Residents are urged to use online services or call 101 for non-emergencies, and to call 999 in an emergency.

Munira Wilson, MP for Twickenham, said, “”For vulnerable or elderly residents who struggle to report crime in other ways, or women and girls suffering abuse for whom it may not be safe to do so, an accessible police counter is vital — and that accessibility is equally important for building public trust.”

“Now, more than ever, the Met has to prove that community policing won’t suffer. Local residents need to see a clear and noticeable increase in police on the streets.”