On February 20, 2026, official watchdogs removed serious warnings about how Surrey Police handles emergency calls, which means people in Walton-On-Thames, Surrey, should now receive quicker help. The force had previously been under intense monitoring after a report found it was failing to meet national standards for responding to the public.
In 2023, an inspection found that the force only answered 77 per cent of 999 calls within the 10-second target, which was well below the required level. Recent data shows a major turnaround, with the service now ranked as the second-fastest in the country for answering emergency calls.
Inspector Roy Wilsher from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services confirmed that the force has made significant progress in these areas. Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend stated that the changes represent dramatic improvements for local residents.
These changes come as Elmbridge Borough Council continues work to make local streets safer with better CCTV and community safety programs. A local order meant to tackle anti-social behaviour in Walton-On-Thames has also been extended until March 2027 to help keep the town safe.
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