Policing Board approves new Ballymena police station

The 2016 Estate Strategy details progression towards a ‘fit for purpose’ estate for the next 35–50 years including planned investment at the St Patrick’s Barracks site, subject to available funding.

Anne Connolly, Policing Board chair, said: “As the legal owner of the Police Estate, the board has carefully examined the plan prior to approval and welcomes the capital investment in new stations planned for Armagh, Cookstown and Ballymena, the redevelopment of facilities at the Police College in Garnerville and a new custody provision in Craigavon and Waterside.”

The Strategy also identifies 12 stations, including Cushendall, which are already closed which the board has approved for disposal.

Earlier this year the Chief Constable decided to suspend the station disposal process to allow time to review the risks, benefits and implications of the proposals and be personally satisfied that any formal removal of these buildings from the estate were considered against any impact this would have on the community.

Assistant Chief Constable Stephen Martin said: “We are aware that the permanent closure and disposal of stations is an emotive issue and can have an effect on community confidence.

“I’d like to reassure the public that these 12 stations are no longer being used by police operationally and formally disposing of them will save money, such as bills incurred from utility services.”