Police force looks at sharing buildings across Argyll
THE POLICE have no plans to leave Mid Argyll or Kintyre, despite national media reporting that police stations could be closed around Argyll.
The buildings themselves are, however, under review as the Police Scotland looks to get rid of ‘old and expensive buildings’.
Police area commander for Mid Argyll, Kintyre, Oban, Lorn and the Islands, Chief Inspector Marlene Baillie, said: ‘We are currently consulting with our local part- ners and communities about the future use of some police buildings and offices in Argyll, as in some cases they may not fit the demands of 2016 or the needs of communities.
Relocation
‘We are consulting on a range of opportunities available to us for areas such as Lochgilphead and Oban, which could include relocation or shared premises to support the delivery of joined-up services to communities. There are some premises within the area that we would want to retain such as Campbeltown police office, but it is clear that some buildings are not being used to their maximum potential or are not necessarily fit for purpose to support the delivery of modern policing services.
‘However, for the avoidance of any doubt which may have been brought about by recent reports in the national media, we will not be closing the of- fices unless we find suitable alternative accommodation in these towns. The review identified offices that could be considered for disposal, such as with the premises in Taynuilt and Inveraray which are currently unoccupied. We are currently finalising plans for a community liaison model for Inveraray.’
Chief Inspector Baillie concluded: ‘We are committed to maintaining a presence within local communities across Argyll.’