Former police station gets new lease of life through Whittlesey Town Council

A PROPOSAL to enable Whittlesey Town Council to buy their local police station has been given the green light.

Police and Crime Commissioner Jason Ablewhite has been working with the council to ensure the now redundant building is retained as an asset for the town and community. The decision to approve the sale of the freehold interest to the council was approved yesterday at the Commissioner’s strategic board.

The building was vacated by the Constabulary in August 2016 as part of a restructure. The local policing team now start their day from March, allowing them to receive a pre-shift briefing from a sergeant face to face. They continue to engage with the local community through street surgeries and other activities.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Jason Ablewhite, said the sale followed detailed engagement with local partners. “It was important to me that the building was retained as a local community asset following the decision that it was not required as part of the operational police estate. Therefore it seemed only natural to progress conversations with Whittlesey Town Council. I am really pleased this was signed, sealed and delivered yesterday.”

Mayor of Whittlesey, Cllr Ralph Butcher, said: “As soon as the Whittlesey Town Council knew the police station was going to be closed we discussed the possibility of purchasing the property. Through working closely with the Police and Crime Commissioner’s office I am pleased we have been able to conclude a deal.

“This giving the Whittlesey Town Council an asset, right in the centre of the Town, easily accessible to residents and in the long run will be more financially beneficial to our ratepayers.”

ENDS

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Charles Kitchin

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About The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner

Jason Ablewhite is the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cambridgeshire.

Police and Crime Commissioners have responsibility for delivering an efficient and effective police service in their area. Commissioners set police and crime objectives, the police budget and issue crime and disorder reduction grants through the Police and Crime Plan. Commissioners also hold the police to account, making them answerable to the public.

Further details can be found on the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner website.