The long-neglected Inverell police station will receive a temporary upgrade while plans for a permanent redevelopment are being decided, according to Inverell Shire Council Mayor, Paul Harmon. Cr Harmon was addressing councillors at their monthly meeting on Wednesday when he reported meeting with the NSW Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Troy Grant, in Sydney last week.
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The Mayor said the Minister had recognised the need to replace the station, declaring the establishment “a disgrace” about 18 months ago. “He still shares that view,” Cr Harmon said.
The Mayor reported the appointment of a new deputy commissioner, who started in the job on Monday this week, was expected to progress the matter towards a permanent solution after she was tasked with reviewing the department’s infrastructure priorities and projects across NSW.
“At that meeting the deputy commissioner informed us there was going to be a spend of around $250,000 immediately on some major construction works at Inverell station to address the operational issues they are currently experiencing,” he said.
Cr Harmon said works would focus on creating a new muster room and another soft interview room. Provision would also be made for a locker room for female officers who are currently sharing one with male staff.
Some demountable buildings may also be brought in to house some staff while works are in progress. Mr Grant reportedly gave assurances the temporary measures would not affect Inverell’s high priority for a new station.
In July, the Inverell Branch of the Police Association of NSW called on the State Government to progress moves towards building a new station saying a commitment to funding was long overdue.
“Inverell police station was built in 1969 for use by 14 officers, today there are close to 50 officers working in what can only be described as inadequate, uncomfortable and cramped conditions,” Police Association Western Organiser, Rod Sheraton said. “The only way to meet the community's policing needs is to build a larger and more modern 24-hour police station for the region’s fast growing population.”
