Lancashire Constabulary chief constable announces his retirement
After more than 31 years in policing, Chris Rowley, the chief constable of Lancashire Constabulary, has announced his intention to retire from policing at the end of March 2024.
Mr Rowley joined Lancashire Constabulary in April 2021 on promotion from Humberside Police, having spent all of his previous career in West Yorkshire.
As well as serving as Lancashire’s chief constable, he is also the national lead for police wellbeing.
Commenting on his announcement, Mr Rowley said: “Becoming the chief constable of Lancashire was the pinnacle of my career and an absolute honour. Throughout my career I have had the opportunity to work with outstanding police officers, police staff, partners and communities.
“The decision to retire has been difficult, but I feel now is the right time to hand the force over to the next person who will no doubt work tirelessly with the police and crime commissioner (PCC) to continue to reduce crime and make Lancashire a safe place to live, work and visit.”
Lancashire PCC Andrew Snowden said: “First and foremost I would like to thank Chris Rowley for everything he has achieved and delivered as chief constable of Lancashire Constabulary.
“He has driven forward the Fighting Crime Plan I launched in 2021, with determination, vigour and professionalism.
“Through his focus on fighting crime and protecting people, improving the service the public receive, working across the criminal justice sector to improve prosecution rates and ensuring local community policing is rebuilt and more visible – crime has significantly fallen in our county and Lancashire is a safer place thanks to Chris’ leadership.”
Mr Snowden added: “As chief constable, Chris has put in place the building blocks that myself and the public want to see – to ensure Lancashire is a force that relentlessly pursues criminals, has an increasingly visible presence in our neighbourhoods, and has high standards of professionalism.
“I will be seeking to appoint a new chief constable to take forward this mission and the advert and job pack for those suitable and interested in the role will shortly be released, on Friday January 5.”