A NEW set-up for policing in Penarth is one step closer after the town council voted in favour of proposals to let their community hub to South Wales Police after the force announced it was closing Penarth police station.
South Wales Police commissioner Alun Michael described Penarth’s station on Windsor Road as ‘unfit for modern-day policing’ and ‘too expensive to run’.
The force has been in negotiations with Penarth Town Council to use their community hub – based next to the town council’s offices on Stanwell Road – as the new home of the police in the town.
The Penarth Times understands the building will be transformed into a stand-alone complex.
The deal is based on a 25-year lease.
At a full meeting of the council on Thursday, December 15, councillors discussed the proposals further with Cllr Kathryn McCaffer reiterating the need to make sure the council weren’t exposing themselves to a lease that would affect future operations.
She was assured adequate independent advice had been given on setting up the lease to protect the council’s interests.
Cllr Mark Wilson, of the Welsh Labour Party, was less weary, showing his full support for the plans which include a guarantee that levels of policing in Penarth will not be affected by the fact the police station is closing.
“I welcome this,” said Cllr Wilson. “It guarantees we have police in Penarth for the median term. It will give people assurances they have access to the force. We will get to know them better, they will get to know us and that will be good for the town.”
Previously Commissioner Michael said moving the force to the hub would be a benefit for the town.
“Basing officers in the West House Community Hub will locate them alongside an important community organisation in the heart of the town,” said Commissioner Michael. “It will bring officers closer to the community and make them even more visible and approachable for the people of Penarth.”
The community hub was built in 1970 and has had various purposes throughout its life including being hired out to various groups, and used for hotdesking and office space.
What do you think about the police station closing in Penarth? Are you concerned about losing the station? Do you think this is a good move? What do you think of policing in Penarth? Let us know in comments below or email penarthtimes@penarthtimes.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel