Feeling secure! - Bull Bay resident glad for police station in neighbourhood

A resident of Windsor Lodge, St Andrew, has welcomed the relocation of the Bull Bay Police Station to their doorsteps with open arms.

"It is such a relief that they are here now," Wayne Robertson told THE STAR.

The 125-year-old station was demolished in mid-July to make way for the construction of the Harbour View to Yallahs segment of the Southern Coastal Highway.

A community centre, located in the Windsor Lodge section of the community, now houses the station.

When THE STAR visited the community last week, Robertson could not help but to revel at the sight of the new police station, which is just a stone's throw from his home. He said that he now enjoys a greater sense of security in the community, which he says is surrounded by crime.

"For the most part, in here is quiet because is mostly working-class people live in here. But crime surrounds us ... . There is gang warfare nearby, so with the police right there, it is better for us," he said.

Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang said plans are being developed for the construction of a replacement facility. The new station will be reconstructed close to the present location. Chang said the new station will meet the needs of both the police and residents.

"The facility is about community members as well as the police having better operational layout within the station. So it's about looking at what we have and looking at the future," Chang said.

The now-demolished station was constructed with packed stones and boasted a cut-stone finish. Robertson said that given the history, he hoped it was preserved.

"I think they should've bypassed it. I like it, and I am so sorry that they knock down that police station. It is a landmark and a part of history. It was such a proper station and served the public well. Hopefully, the next one they build will be suitable for everyone in the Bull Bay area," he said.