The decision was announced following a meeting between Assistant Chief Constable Alistair Finlay, Commander for D District, Chief Supt. Henry Irvine and representatives from three of the four DPPs in D District, which will be affected.

The new opening hours will not now start until September.

ACC Finlay said that the meeting was an opportunity to listen to the views and concerns of the District Policing Partnerships, who, he said, play a key role in representing local communities, and to explore ways to build and develop better communication.

"We fully understand that the decision to reduce the hours at enquiry offices at Antrim, Lisburn, Newtownabbey and Carrickfergus stations has led to some concern in the community, and amongst politicians, DPP members and other key stakeholders" he said.

"This meeting was about listening to these views and looking at how the Police and DPPs can work together to build strong relationships that will benefit the whole community.

"In order to create the space for us to have these discussions around working better together - the decision was taken to postpone the implementation of the revised opening hours until September 2010.

"We believe that the changes will enhance local policing and get more officers back on the streets to address crime and key issues of community concern, however, it is essential that everyone is fully supportive and behind our efforts to deliver - professional, protective and personal policing in D District.

"We are hopeful that these forthcoming discussions will benefit everyone living in the Antrim, Carrickfergus, Newtownabbey and Lisburn areas," ACC Finlay said.

Last month Lisburn DPP passed a vote of no confidence in Chief Superintendent Irvine after saying they first heard about the plan through the media.