Call for police stations to be for public use
Bid to retain force’s empty property
Police Scotland have launched a consultation looking at selling off vacant police stations in Blackburn and Fauldhouse.
Both offices have been lying empty for some time but calls have been made to keep the premises for use by the public.
The Scottish Police Authority approved a period of consultation in relation to 53 premises around Scotland which have been identified for potential disposal.
These premises were identified following a review of the estate and the vast majority are empty or will soon become empty and therefore the proposed changes will not impact on service delivery to local communities.
The consultation will conclude on Wednesday, January 31, 2018.
Deputy Chief Officer David Page, said: “The review of our estate was carried out to ensure that it is fit for purpose, reflects the changing nature of policing and can support service delivery to local communities. “Local Policing Commanders were significantly involved in the review, as they are best placed to understand the local needs of their respective divisions.
“We are now consulting with local communities, partners and stakeholders on the potential disposal of some of our police premises.
“The vast majority of these premises are empty and are not used as a permanent base for police officers or police staff. No decisions have been made in relation to any of the premises, we want to capture the thoughts and opinions of our staff, partners and those in our communities before any decisions are made.
“I would encourage as many people as possible to participate in the consultation.”
Both Blackburn and Fauldhouse Police Stations have been closed for some time and police chiefs are being urged to make sure the buildings are kept for public use.
SNP MSP Fiona Hyslop said of Blackburn Police Station: “Blackburn has been lying empty for a considerable amount of time, I met with the Chief Inspector recently and we discussed this as part of our meeting.
“Of course constituents may have consultation ideas about how the empty police office should or could be used and they can respond to the consultation.”
Labour MSP Neil Findlay added: “I hope Police Scotland will look seriously at the possibility of these buildings remaining in community use and an asset to local people.”