GREENOCK police station is to be replaced by a new “operational hub” at a local business park.
Police Scotland has agreed lease terms with Riverside Inverclyde Property Holdings for the former IBM offices at Pottery Street.
The Riverside Business Park premises will initially be leased, with an option to purchase the site after two years.
It’s expected that there will be a transition period where the current Rue End Street building and Ben Lomond View will both be used operationally.
Following ground survey and feasibility work, Police Scotland intend to submit plans to build a custody facility at Ben Lomond View, after which the Rue End Street station would be disposed of.
Chief Constable Jo Farrell said: “The site at Pottery Street provides a strong operational base that ensures continued accessibility, supports our teams and strengthens our presence across the town and surrounding communities. With modern office accommodation that can be adapted for our requirements and development opportunities to potentially create a new custody suite on site, the building secures our position for decades to come.”
Councillor Stephen McCabe, leader of Inverclyde Council, said: “This is fantastic news for Inverclyde that addresses the need for a replacement police station and utilises a large, modern premises in a prominent location that is currently vacant.
“I’m pleased with the commitment and investment in Inverclyde by Police Scotland and for the efforts of council officers alongside RI in finding a sensible solution that benefits all involved but especially the people of Inverclyde.
Gavin McDonagh, chair of Riverside Inverclyde, said: “This is a win-win for all involved – for Riverside Inverclyde, Inverclyde Council, Police Scotland and, most importantly, the people of Inverclyde.
“Through strong partnership working, we have been able to find a mutually-beneficial arrangement that will allow for the replacement of the existing Rue End Street police station, maximise the use of the vacant Ben Lomond View building, and crucially retain a strong, local police presence in the heart of Inverclyde.”
