High street police station plans move step closer

Plans for a new Police Station on Worksop’s high street could soon be a reality.

It follows long-running discussions between Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Gary Godden, Nottinghamshire Police and Bassetlaw District Council to secure a front counter service in the heart of the community and enhance the town's visible policing presence.

Bassetlaw District Council’s Cabinet agreed in principle this week to transfer ownership of the town centre property at 73 Bridge Street to the PCC, who is responsible for Nottinghamshire Police's estate.

The decision will now be considered by the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee as part of a confidential report on Tuesday 16 June.

Gary Godden, Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire, said: “I'm delighted that we have moved a step closer to securing a dedicated police station in such a prominent town centre location in Worksop.

"Following continued engagement with the community since I came into the role, I have had a long-held ambition to enhance the police's presence and accessibility in the Bassetlaw district, and this marks a major step toward making this a reality.

"I'd like to thank Bassetlaw MP Jo White and Bassetlaw District Council for working closely with me on this and helping me ensure we meet the needs of local people so we can strengthen trust, confidence and partnership working with the community."

This proposal is designed to enhance the Police provision across Bassetlaw and add to the facilities that are already in place in Harworth and Bircotes and Retford.

The decision was welcomed by the Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, Cllr Julie Leigh, who said: “We have been working with the Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner as well as Bassetlaw-based Officers for some months now to enable the Police to pursue a new base that enhances the way they provide policing in our district and town.

“Subject to the decision of our Overview and Scrutiny Committee, I’m pleased that further discussions will be able to take place so that our shared ambition of enhanced policing can be realised while also contributing to wider ambitions for our town centre and improving safety.”

Should the decision be endorsed, Nottinghamshire Police will move from their current base in Queen’s Buildings and have full responsibility for the facilities that are provided at the new station.

Jo White, Member of Parliament for Bassetlaw, said: “I have been fighting for a more visible police presence in Worksop town centre because our town centres must be safe for shoppers, visitors and local businesses.

“I am delighted that the Police and Crime Commissioner has listened, and is working with Bassetlaw District Council to open a new police station on Bridge Street. This is a welcome addition to the police presence in Bassetlaw.”

Number 73 Bridge Street is currently used as a base for the Council’s Market provision in addition to public toilets. Alternative locations to accommodate these facilities are also being explored alongside this report.