South Shields police station on the move

Harton Police Station closed its front counter service to the public in 2007, although officers still remained based in the building.

But yesterday marked the end of an era as workmen boarded up its doors and windows.

Neighbourhood Policing teams for the area have since been relocated to 1 Horsley Hill Square on the nearby estate.

The move took place on January 14 as part of a cost-cutting measure by the force.

A statement from Northumbria Police said: “Our older police buildings are expensive to run and maintain, and the force needs to ensure it gets the best value for the money it spends on all aspects of policing, including office accommodation.

“Relocating officers to share community premises will enable the force to ensure officers remain within their communities while reducing costs.

“The savings made will enable the Police and Crime Commissioner Vera Baird to invest these in policing Northumbria.”

Labour’s Harton councillor Neil Maxwell said: “It is something we have known about for a while now.

“But I am confident the closure of the station and the relocation of the officers will not have an impact on the policing of the area.

“The base they now have in Horsley Hill Square is an all-round better building and will be more accessible.”

Neighbourhood Policing Teams can be contacted on 101, or via the Northumbria Police website, www.northumbria.police.uk