Threat to cop shops
‘Cover-up’allegations
Police stations in Bannockburn, Bridge of Allan and Tullibody could get the chop as part of budget plans.
The three properties are part of a list of buildings in 58 locations which could be closed under a Police Scotland review.
But politicians have raised concerns about the plans, which were revealed by a Freedom of Information request submitted by the BBC.
Dean Lockhart MSP, member of the Scottish Parliament for MidScotland and Fife said: “It is entirely reasonable Police Scotland should be looking to make efficiencies where suitable, but people in Bannockburn and Bridge of Allan will be wondering why it has taken a Freedom of Information request to uncover the fact that these stations may be closed completely, leaving no permanent police presence. When the counters were originally closed in 2014, it was promised that the stations would still be open.
“Police stations are not like branches of a bank. It should not be about how many customers are actually using the facilities, but about ensuring a safe, reassuring presence in our communities.”
Fellow Central Scotland and Fife MSP Claire Baker said: “This will cause considerable alarm in communities across Scotland and the public needs to be kept informed every step of the way. That is why the secrecy involved is particularly worrying, with this only coming to light following a Freedom of Information request. That is completely unacceptable and will spark legitimate fears of a cover-up.”
Other facilities identified as under review include buildings in Anstruther, Ayr and Gourock.
The sale of the 58 properties could be worth up to £34 million to the force, however a consultation is planned. A police spokesman said stations under review did “not match policing requirements and are subject to some form of consultation with communities, partners or staff ”.
He added: “The discussion may simply be with partners to explore whether there are alternative opportunities to support service delivery, such as shared premises. Before seeking to declare a police office surplus there will be a community element to consultation, but how that is completed will vary. Some proposals may be withdrawn before it reaches that stage.”