Two offices under review as views are sought
Cops are seeking residents’ views on the potential closure of two police stations.
The Scottish Police Authority (SPA) is carrying out a review of its estate, and it is proposed that the Linwood and Johnstone offices are closed.
A report going before Renfrewshire Council’s Police and Fire and Rescue Scrutiny Sub Committee on Tuesday, states: “Police Scotland inherited a large estate based on legacy requirements that had developed over a significant period of time when policing demands were very different from current and anticipated future demands.
“The estate is now being reviewed to ensure that it is fit for purpose and delivers best value.”
More than 50 police stations across Scotland have been identified as no longer being required and are facing the axe.
“The vast majority of these stations are already empty with no staff or officers located within them,” the report adds.
“However, a small number of the stations identified do still have some staff or officers located within them.
“Both Johnstone and Linwood police stations have been identified within the review as no longer being required for operational reasons, and could potentially be disposed of.
“No immediate decision has been taken in relation to either of these stations.
“The Scottish Police Authority have commenced a period of formal engagement with communities, partners and staff that will be concluded before any decision is taken.
“The consultation is scheduled to run to the end of January 2018.”
In Johnstone, the police office within the new town hall is now established and has been well received by the local community, the report says.
This facility will continue to provide a manned police presence within Johnstone.
The remaining staff at the old Quarry Street police station are relocating to Renfrew over the next few months, and this proposal has been well received by the community in Renfrew, according to the report.
“The Linwood police station has been closed since 2012 and is only being used on occasion as an interview suite and its closure will have no impact on the public in terms of frontline access or service delivery,” the report adds.
Have your say on the proposals at https://consult.scotland.police. uk/consultation/estates/