Monmouth and Chepstow police stations are two of 17 police stations across Gwent that will close to the public in July.

Gwent Police needs to make savings of £34 million by 2015 and losing the front desk service at most of its stations will make up £500,000 towards that figure.

The changes mean 19 'station enquiry officer' posts will be lost.

The force says the changes come from "the need to deliver an efficient and accessible 21st century police force".

"People have told us they want more police officers in the community and improved accessibility," said a statement.

"Gwent Police has redesigned the way that communities can access our services to best meet people's busy and changing lifestyles.

"Research has shown that fewer people are visiting police stations and buildings."

From July, Newport Central will be the only station in Gwent open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The stations in Abergavenny, Ebbw Vale, Cwmbran and Blackwood will be open to the public from 8am to 8pm seven days a week.

All other stations will be retained as 'officer bases', 'specialist departments' or office accommodation.

See the front page of this week's Beacon (14th March) to find out which stations are closing their front desks.