VIEWS from Ballynahinch and Saintfield residents on proposals to close their police stations are being sought by police.
Down Area Commander, Chief Inspector Deirdre Bones, said she had to look closely at all stations in her area to ensure they were using all their resources in the most efficient and effective way.
Back in October it emerged the two stations were on a list of those whose future was to be reviewed by the Policing Board, with the PSNI stating that they need to deliver a £2.2m saving in their estate budget due to government cutbacks.
Chief Inspector Bones said she wanted to have a “constructive debate” with local people on the way forward and said her team were committed to listening to people in the communities they served.
“I assure you that a decision to recommend the closure of a station is not taken lightly,” she said. “I can understand that some may take comfort in having a police station nearby. However, modern policing is about people, not buildings.
“The current police estate remains 70 per cent bigger in comparison to other UK police services of comparable size. It reflects the demands of a very different era in policing.
“Our aim is that policing should be a part of the local community. However, underused buildings will not achieve this, investment in police officers and staff working in the local community will.
“I encourage everyone with an interest in or influence on policing to participate in the debate. I am leading this consultation and you can email me on deirdre.bones@psni.pnn.police.uk. In the weeks ahead, we will inform you of opportunities to share your views.”