Chair of Lochaber Committee questions Police Control Room arrangements

Chair of the Council’s Lochaber Committee, Cllr Andrew Baxter, has questioned Police Scotland’s proposals for closing the Inverness Control Room and establishing two National Database Enquiry Units (NDEUs).

His comments follow a presentation by Police Scotland to members at the local Committee today, Tuesday 22 August.

Councillor Baxter said: “I am dismayed at these proposals being presented today as if it were a fait accompli.

 “We were promised a Unit in Inverness to serve the whole of Scotland with an increase in jobs. This sudden change in position has been taken without proper consultation and public engagement.

“The Scottish Police Authority (SPA) has not yet had a chance to consider this alternative proposal to have two NDEUs, nor to view the business case and scrutinise the options and the rationale. It is imperative that proper scrutiny is applied and decisions are made in the best interests of the people of the Highlands.”

He added:

“We note the assurances given by Police Scotland regarding the safety of the Control Room in Dundee, however the Council remains opposed to the closure of the Inverness Control Room and centralisation of resources out with the Highlands. Loss of geographical knowledge remains a key risk.”

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