UPGRADE FOR KIRWAN COPS
ONE of the city’s oldest police stations will be transformed into a state-of-the-art $30m facility set to house a growing number of officers, as part of the state government’s latest election promise.
Police Minister Mark Ryan announced the “big commitment” at the Kirwan Station yesterday, saying a growing police service needed the station to match.
His commitment comes after the Premier promised more than 2000 extra police officers for the state, including 150 in the Northern Region across the next five years, but Police Minister Katarina Carroll could not confirm how many would come to the Townsville District.
Mr Ryan said the details of the construction site, start time and initial plans were still in the works, but emphasised that Kirwan’s on the ground cops would play a huge part in the process. The Townsville Bulletin understands full consultations could start early next year, if re-elected.
“There’s a process to go through but it’s a commitment that runs in parallel with our 2025 police personnel (promise) right across the state,” Mr Ryan said.
“Police are very keen to get this facility upgraded, obviously there needs to be some work done around design, but also listening to the front line.”
Deputy Commissioner for Regional Queensland Paul Taylor said he was keen to hear the ideas, saying a modern and upgraded station would match the enthusiasm of the cops inside the four walls.
The station on Thuringowa Drive, which houses 74 police
officers, was built in 1984 and is in need of an expansion.
It sits on the same block the Kirwan Fire Station and Kirwan Ambulance Station, which has just undergone a $5m upgrade. The police station is currently undergoing renovations, but has become too small for its growing staff levels which jumped 15 officers in two years.
Queensland Police data shows almost 5000 offences have been committed in the Kirwan Police division this year, with more than 2000 of those property crime offences.
Ms Carroll said demand had increased significantly in the area.
“It’s about keeping this area safe … and the investment is truly appreciated,” she said.
Thuringowa MP Aaron Harper said he lobbied for the “ageing” facility to be upgraded.
“I know … how important it is to have the facilities, the modern facilities, for your staff, it increases morale and something the community also appreciates,” Mr Harper said.
Opposition leader Deb Frecklington did not give a straight answer when asked whether the LNP would match the $30m commitment.
“In relation to the Police Minister, I would say this to him, when you’re standing in Townsville how about you look after the people who are scared to leave their house,” she said.