MONTHLY INSPECTIONS

The force says the cladding is inspected on a monthly basis and loose material is identified and removed.

It says the scaffolding is not providing any support to keep the building standing, and say the overall building is structurally sound.

Divisional Commander Ch Supt Andrea Bishop said: “A structural survey of the building has identified that the external concrete cladding is deteriorating rapidly and is approaching the end of its serviceable life.

“Although maintenance is ongoing to ensure the building remains safe, a decision has yet to be taken on the longterm future of the building.

“To re-clad and re-glaze the entire building would cost a great deal of money and we are in the process of evaluating whether this would be economically viable. We are also considering a number of other options.”

The Police and Crime Commissioner’s (PCC) chief finance officer Rob Phillips said the final decision about the station’s future will be made by the commissioner Matthew Scott.

Mr Phillips said: “We have a duty to the public to make sure all buildings are cost effective and represent value for money.

“The commissioner has asked the force to come forward with a proposal, consulting with an extensive range of stakeholders, before a decision is taken in due course.

“Our estate plays a key role in delivering effective and efficient policing for the people of Kent and all decisions are made on the basis of community need, use, operational effectiveness and efficiency, and opportunities to share accommodation with partner agencies.

“The commissioner has made it clear that retaining a policing facility in Ashford is a red line and he will only agree to a plan which does not result in a diminution of service to the public.”

Chief superintendent Andrea Bishop