Community policing fears aired

FEARS have been expressed for the future of community policing in Scotland after 180 police stations were closed - including four in this region.

The Scottish Police Federation (SPF) said it is “deeply concerned” by the number of properties lost since 2013.

Dalbeattie; Kirkcudbright; Thornhill; and Gretna have been the victims in Dumfries and Galloway.

And the SPF has warned such closures are eroding community policing and neighbourhood safety, while opposition MSPs have accused the SNP government of “hollowing out” and “presiding over the death of community policing”.

David Kennedy, SPF general secretary, said: “The Scottish Police Federation remains deeply concerned that the ongoing sale of police stations is eroding the visible presence of policing in our communities.

“These buildings are far more than bricks and mortar – they are a clear and constant deterrent to crime and a vital point of reassurance for the public.

“As stations disappear from our towns and neighbourhoods, so too does the sense of safety they provide.

“Officers are being asked to deliver local policing without the local footprint that communities rightly expect.

“Scotland deserves a policing model that is accessible, visible, and rooted in the places it serves – not one defined by retreat and reduced presence.

“It is therefore vital that budget increases are given so that policing can be back in the communities, where it is needed and where it belongs.”

The force currently has 337 operational police stations, according to the figures released following a freedom of information request, but many of the buildings are in a state of disrepair.

Meanwhile, a Scottish Government said community policing is “central to the Scottish Government’s strategic police priorities”.

“Police Scotland delivers on this through measures that enhance local policing and build stronger community links,” a spokesperson added.

“While decisions around police stations and how resources are deployed are operational matters for the Chief Constable, Police Scotland continues to dispose of properties that are no longer fit for purpose or required, while reinvesting in purpose-built facilities to deliver modern premises.

“Scotland’s police officers do an outstanding job and we are grateful for their dedicated work to keep our communities safe.”