The revolving door at the top of Epping Forest District Police is turning again.

The district’s top officer, Jonathan Baldwin, has confirmed he has been transferred to a new role.

Essex Police have declined to reveal exactly why the chief inspector is not currently working as district commander, and he is believed to be currently working at police headquarters, in Chelmsford.

Mr Baldwin told the Guardian he was currently assigned to “other duties” and it was not his decision to leave the role.

But he added his absence was temporary, and he looked forward to resuming his old position.

The high turnover in the role of district commander has attracted extensive criticism in the past, with Ongar MP Eric Pickles once comparing the constant changeovers to speed-dating Mr Baldwin was appointed district commander for Epping Forest in June this year and took over from Ivor Harvey, who was the third district commander for Epping Forest in two years.

At the time of his departure, Mr Harvey was criticised for taking a promotion just six months into the job, and frustration has been voiced that the district is once again without a permanent police chief.

District council chairman John Knapman said: “We can’t keep our district commanders. This is yet another one down after only five months. It’s not fair on us; we have no continuity.

“My view is he hasn’t been suspended, so why is he sitting behind a desk in Chelmsford? Where’s the value in that? This matter needs to be resolved quickly. It shouldn’t be allowed to linger on.

“As far as I’m concerned he was doing a good job. Since we don’t know what these internal issues are it’s very hard to take a position, but they should make a decision, whether it be to remove him or not.”

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Inspector Craig Carrington is performing the role of Epping Forest District Commander in the temporary absence of Chief Inspector Jonathan Baldwin.

“We are not in a position to comment on the reason for this absence. Neighbourhood policing and our service to the local community will remain unaffected.”