Tunbridge Wells Police Station could be sold to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
Published: 14:08, 15 May 2019
Updated: 13:13, 16 May 2019
A police station could be set off to boost police funding.
Valuers visited Tunbridge Wells police station in Crescent Road.
KentOnline understands the valuers were sent by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, which is interested in buying the site.
A spokesman from the office of the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner said: "Kent Police and the PCC have a duty to the public to make sure all buildings are fit for purpose and offer value for money.
"Our estate plans are kept under review, but any future proposal for any site changes would only be approved by the PCC based on the service offered to the public."
No decision on the station's future has been made, but the PCC's office has assured there would not be a sale if there was not a viable alternative for local police.
Last year Kent Police cut the number of local officers based at Tunbridge Wells Police Station.
Officers from the District Policing Team now report to Tonbridge Station 6.4miles away.
Once on duty they still respond to incidents in Tunbridge Wells.
Any impact the change may have had was propped up by extra town centre officers being deployed in Tunbridge Wells town centre.
A Tunbridge Wells Borough Council spokeswoman said: "The council has not taken any decision regarding purchasing the police station in Royal Tunbridge Wells."
Divisional commander for Kent Police’s West Division, chief supt Simon Wilson said: "Residents and visitors to Tunbridge Wells have a dedicated policing team including a town centre team of officers that work effectively with partners to promote community safety and tackle criminality.
"These officers are supported by Police Community Support Officers and special constables who actively seek information and intelligence around criminal activity, disorderly or antisocial behaviour.
"The biggest recruitment drive in Kent Police’s history will increase the number of officers and strengthen the force’s capability to tackle crime and keep our communities safe."
For more news from around Tunbridge Wells, click here.
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Luke May