NEWS
The delayed Fortitude Valley police station has finally been opened, with both sides of politics offering quite different views on whether it was a time for rejoicing or recriminations.
Local MP Grace Grace (pictured above at the opening with Police Minister Neil Roberts) welcomed news of more local police but the LNP Opposition labelled the project “late and over budget”.
Mr Roberts said the new $16 million facility would provide police with the resources necessary to service the unique present and future needs of the Brisbane Central District.
“This modern redevelopment and extension to the existing heritage listed Fortitude Valley Station will enhance efficiency and allow local police to better meet growing demand in the central Brisbane area,” Mr Roberts said.
“The station will house 105 general duties officers, as well as a number of functions including Police Liaison Officers, Criminal Investigation Branch, Tactical Crime Squad, Intelligence Officers, Administrative Officers and Station Client Service Officers,” he said.
Ms Grace said of the policing boost to her electorate: “This new establishment will enable police to focus on local issues by working closely with community
“This massive investment in central Brisbane policing shows the government’s commitment to enhancing community safety in this area.”
The Opposition said the station was supposed to have opened 18 months ago and cost $3 million less.
LNP shadow Police Minister Vaughan Johnson welcomed the redevelopment and the boost to policing in the Valley, but questioned why the project was so late and so over budget.
“The redevelopment of the Fortitude Valley police station was announced way back in February 2007 and Public Works Minister Robert Schwarten claimed then that construction was ‘expected to take 12 to 18 months’,” he said.
“More than three years later, the redevelopment is finally done, albeit at a cost of $16 million, up from the initial budget of $12.89 million.
