During the next few months detailed planning will be undertaken, refining the concept with input from chief inspector Rowan O’Brien, Superintendent Scott Tanner and other officers.

Ch Insp O’Brien was pleased to see potential for future expansion in regards to staff available for deployment, not only around Inverell but right across the New England Police District.

“We have a fairly unique, narrow block. What stands out for me is being able to maintain the entrance in Otho Street. Unlike other emergency services we have clients that walk in off the street.

“It is important for us to maintain easy access for the community. Other standouts include increased storage for exhibits and a purpose-built conference room where we can undertake training,” he said.

Ch Insp O’Brien said the current “rabbit warren” had inadequate conference space to cater for the number of staff on deck.

The concept of having an open plan area officers call a muster room was another highlight for local officers.

“The muster room is where all the constables have their work stations and the supervisor is just off the muster room. That’ll lead to better communication among all staff,” he said.

Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall said the modern, state-of-the-art facility will be fit for purpose.

“This is real tangible progress towards our dream of getting a new 24/7 station in Inverell. The station will hopefully last us the next four or five decades and as Inverell continues to grow, ultimately so will police presence,” he said.

After concept designs are finalised and refined, tenders will be called. Mr Marshall expects the tender process to begin around April running for six to eight weeks. Afterwards demolition and construction will begin.

Inverell Shire Council mayor Paul Harmon said the release of concept plans for the new station was exciting for the whole community.

“We know our current police station has been well behind the times and unsuitable for local police to operate out of in an efficient way.

“This is a great day for Inverell and it’s great to see more investment into our community through vital infrastructure,” Cr Harmon said.

Mr Marshall said 2019 would be a big year of construction for Inverell with the hospital re-development going “full throttle”, the new police station and two large-scale restoration projects underway.

“It’s great for the town and the local economy,” he said.