The future of a council's community policing team is set to be secured for another year with a police inspector poised to join.

The Redbridge Community Police Team, funded by the Metropolitan Police and Redbridge council, patrols parks and hot spot areas across the borough.

The decision to extend the contract, costing £462,500, until March 31 next year will mean the team will continue to help police deal with anti-social behaviour, trading standards and street-scene issues.

The team was set up in 2011 to replace the borough's dedicated park team, and the new contract could see an extra inspector hired in place of a police constable in the team.

Cllr Ross Hatfull, cabinet member for community safety said: “I am delighted that we can improve the Redbridge Community Police Team by having a higher calibre officer to lead the team.

“An inspector will not only provide the strategic leadership that the team needs, but increase its influence and effectiveness, meaning it can really deliver on the issues which local residents care about.”

Redbridge council’s Neighbourhood and Communities Service Committee will meet next Wednesday to discuss the contract extension at Redbridge town hall, in Ilford.