Bexley police has announced the arrival of its new borough commander as part of the Bexley, Lewisham and Greenwich police merger.

Chief Superintendent Simon Dobinson steps into the role today and will be responsible for overseeing the policing of all three boroughs.

Previously borough commander for Greenwich, Ch Supt Dobinson has taken charge of Bexley which was previously overseen by Ch Supt Stuart Bell.

In a statement, he praised his predecessor for his commitment to the borough.

He said: “Really privileged to be the Borough Commander for Bexley, Greenwich and Lewisham. Huge recognition to Ch.Supt Stuart Bell who has worked tirelessly for Bexley and his team.”

This appointment marks the first step in a project to combine forces across London in the face of cuts which will see £325m less spent on policing by 2021/2.

The Met Police’s current model of 32 borough forces will be merged to create 12 basic command units (BCUs).

The new BCU, overseen by Ch Supt Dobinson, will share resources between the three London boroughs.