Go-ahead for possible sale of Littleborough Police Station

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

Littleborough Police Station

The go-ahead has been given for the proposed sale of Littleborough Police Station, which has been closed to the public since 2012.

Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “Littleborough Police Station is standing empty and is no longer needed by Greater Manchester Police.

“I’ve been reassured that there will no impact on the police service provided to local people should this building be sold and I welcome feedback from local councillors, MPs and communities before a final decision is made.”

Chris Sykes, Territorial Commander for Rochdale at Greater Manchester Police, said: “Littleborough station has been used solely as a drop-in site for officers for the past four years.

"We already have a presence in many community buildings in Littleborough and the surrounding areas and our neighbourhood officers and PCSOs will continue to work there.

"We are also committed to working closely with the council, community and other partners to ensure that we continue to deliver the best service possible.”

Reacting to the news, Wardle and West Littleborough Councillor Robert Clegg said: “I imagine there will be a few people disappointed that it hasn’t gone to consultation. As it has been closed since 2012 we haven’t had a police station for a while. The email from Tony Lloyd was the first many of us had heard of it so there isn’t an awful lot to say.”

Rochdale Online Director and Littleborough resident John Kay said: “Well as it has been closed since 2012 I don’t expect it will be too largely noticed in the community. I think that it is always good to occupy and empty building, and I hope that whatever is planned for its future is beneficial for the community and for Littleborough.”

Local resident Cathy Jones said: “I think it would be better to have a police station in the village than nothing. To be honest I don’t see how this can be a big thing for local people, having something there is better than having nothing there. Let’s see what happens to it – maybe it will turn into something good.”

Owner of Littleborough business Violet Flamingo Lindsey James said: “I think it would be better to have a police station in the village than an empty building, but I don't think people will really have a big reaction. It's been closed for years."

Following the decision this week, the first stage of the disposal process, which involves speaking to local councillors, MPs and the public will begin.

Local people can give their views on the plans by emailing (by Friday 15 July):

info@gmpcc.org.uk