A plan to let Whittlesey Town Council buy the local police station has been given the green light.

Cambs Times: Mayor of Whittlesey, Alex Miscandlon with Police and Crime Commissioner, Councillor Jason Ablewhite outside the Whittlesey Police Station building PHOTO: PCCMayor of Whittlesey, Alex Miscandlon with Police and Crime Commissioner, Councillor Jason Ablewhite outside the Whittlesey Police Station building PHOTO: PCC (Image: Archant)

Police and Crime Commissioner Jason Ablewhite has been working with the council to ensure the now redundant building is kept as an asset for the town and community.

A force spokesman said the building was vacated by the police in August 2016 as part of a restructure.

The local policing team now start their day from March, allowing them to receive a pre-shift briefing from a sergeant face to face, they said.

They continue to engage with the local community through street surgeries and other activities, the spokesman added.

Councillor Jason Ablewhite, said the sale followed “detailed engagement with local partners.”

He said: “It was important to me that the building was retained as a local community asset following the decision that it was not required as part of the operational police estate.

“Therefore it seemed only natural to progress conversations with Whittlesey Town Council.

“I am really pleased this was signed, sealed and delivered yesterday (Thursday 21).”

Mayor of Whittlesey, Cllr Ralph Butcher, said the council currently meet in Grosvenor House which is a rented property so it made sense to purchase thier own building.

“As soon as the Whittlesey Town Council knew the police station was going to be closed we discussed the possibility of purchasing the property.

“Through working closely with the Police and Crime Commissioner’s office I am pleased we have been able to conclude a deal.

“This giving the Whittlesey Town Council an asset, right in the centre of the town, easily accessible to residents and in the long run will be more financially beneficial to our ratepayers.”

The police station opened in the town in October 1968. Last year people feared that losing the police station would mean the loss of a valuable local resource.

The decision to approve the sale of the freehold interest to the council was approved at the Commissioner’s strategic board.