The Largs Police Station is set to close, and move to a more purpose built facility with Brooksby considered to be the prime spot for the new premises.
Local councillors were informed of the proposed closure during the past week, as a consultation on the move is set to get underway.
Chief Inspector Brian Shaw said, “It is important that we consider how our local facilities are used to ensure Police Scotland provides a quality service whilst considering the needs and demands of our communities. At this time we plan to commence a consultation with our local partners and communities about the future use of the Largs police office, as there are a range of opportunities available to us including relocation or shared premises within Largs to support the delivery of joined-up services to communities.
“We are committed to maintaining a presence within Largs and there will be no change to the way that community police officers patrol the area and respond to calls. However, it is vital to have an estate that supports modern working practices and also supports the delivery of a local police service that best meets local needs, improves access to the service and reflects the priorities of the area. It is fundamental that the service my officers provide to Largs remains firmly rooted in the local community and that officers remain visible and accessible to the public we serve.”
The police station, which includes the former JP Court building, was built in 1871, but with Police Scotland closing a number of their buildings around Scotland in recent years, and the School Street building considered to be not fit for purpose in the longer term, a move to Brooksby, to be closer to other agencies, has continually been mooted.
Inspector Brian Skimming of Largs Police told the 'News' that the police station will not be closing in the immediate future, and the consultation is just getting underway now. There will be no change to police staffing levels as a result of the proposed move.
We recently reported that a new sheltered housing development is set to be built in the grounds of Largs Academy after it closes next year.
Changes are also set to take place to St Colm's Place, in School St/Boyd St in Largs, which is also set to be re-developed, with residents set to be transferred to the new site while the re-development is taking place. With the police station immediately adjacent to it, the area could provide extra space for further sheltered housing.