Police / Brae police station to be put up for sale
The station is not routinely used, area commander Stuart Clemenson said
POLICE Scotland has confirmed that it plans to sell its Brae station following a public consultation.
Ten people responded to the public consultation, with 50 per cent agreeing that the building should be disposed of.
Shetland area commander chief inspector Stuart Clemenson said over the last eight years officers have predominantly been deployed from Lerwick.
He added that the last officer based in Brae retired in June 2022.
“The disposal of Brae would not lead to any change in this operational model,” Clemenson said.
“The station at Brae is not routinely used but continues to incur daily expenses and ongoing maintenance, which is not a good use of public funds.
“Where our officers are based is where they start their shift. With investment in our fleet and digital device technology, our officers are now fully mobile to be able to police the mainland without the need for a physical base in that location.
“This means they have little need to return to the office, allowing them to be more present and responsive in the communities we serve.
“Although we are disposing of a vacant building we are also investing in others, such as housing for local officers.
“Over the last year we have invested in new housing for local officers on Shetland as well as Orkney, Gairloch, Glencoe and Strontian.
“Officers working in remote and rural locations play an integral part in community life and it is vital we support them to remain or relocate to these areas.”
Clemenson sought to reassure the community that officers will “continue to be active, visible and accessible”.
“Our station in Lerwick will continue to be our main base, along with the officer on Mid Yell,” he added.
“The front counter at Lerwick is open from 8am until 6pm seven days a week, excluding annual leave/training/absence.
“Anyone wishing to talk to an officer can visit the station or call 101 (999 in an emergency).”
The plan to close the Brae office comes as part of a wider Police Scotland estate transformation strategy which was announced in December.
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