MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR UPGRADE OF REDLANDS POLICE STATION ON TRACK

Work on the $3.7 million upgrade of Redland Bay Police Station is on track for completion by the end of the year, Police Minister Judy Spence said today.

Following Sunday's Community Cabinet meeting at Redlands, Ms Spence and the Member for Redlands, John English, today inspected work on the new facility at the corner of Weinam and Hamilton Streets.

Ms Spence said construction was progressing well.

"These improved facilities will help police in their fight against crime by providing improved infrastructure, working conditions and operational resources," Ms Spence said.

"This multi-million dollar upgrade is a long term investment in law and order that will see the station expand to more than five times its current size.

"The facility will feature two holding cells, two interview rooms and a 'home look-alike' room for interviewing children that is equipped with specialist recording equipment.

"It will also provide for future growth in policing numbers and have the capacity to accommodate up to 90 officers.

"Redland Bay is experiencing rapid population growth and the Beattie Government is acting now to ensure police have the best possible infrastructure, resources and support to work with the community in fighting crime."

Ms Spence said the new facility would accommodate general duties police officers as well as members of the Water Police and detectives from the Criminal Investigation Branch and Juvenile Aid Bureau.

"It will also provide new and improved resources and operational equipment for police to help them better fight crime in the community," Ms Spence said.

Mr English said he was very pleased to see the station upgrade on track.

"It's terrific to see construction on schedule, with the roof already in place and the installation of interior and exterior walls and key services well underway," Mr English said.

"I have no doubt that these improvements will enhance the working conditions for police at Redlands and I look forward to seeing this project progress in the coming months."

Mr English said the new facility was expected to open for business early next year.

Ms Spence and Mr English also made a visit to the recently-established police shopfront in Broadwater Road.

The shopfront has been set up to continue provide a police counter service during the construction work, to minimise disruption to policing services during the redevelopment of the police station.

"Police tell me that this arrangement has been well received by residents, with police responding to about five counter enquiries each day, as well as regular calls for service," Ms Spence said.

"This has ensured Baysiders continue to receive a strong policing presence and are not inconvenienced by the renovations."

Media contact: Alison Smith 3239 6218 or 0439 673 287