Key information
Reference code: DMPCD 2015 152
Date signed:
Decision by: Stephen Greenhalgh, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime
Executive summary
The MOPAC Policing and Public Access in London document identified Greenwich Police Station as a site which was unsuitable for operational requirements in the long term, and identified the need for new facilities to be re-provided nearby. This paper proposes the relocation of neighbourhood policing teams to a combination of existing MOPAC sites within the Royal Borough of Greenwich, the relocation of the Contact Point at Greenwich Police Station to the market in Greenwich Town Centre where there is a greater footfall, and subject to approval to the above the marketing and disposal of Greenwich Police Station.
Recommendation
The DMPC is asked to
1. Note the relocation of officers from Greenwich Police Station to a combination of Warspite Road, Eltham Police Station and Greenwich Royal Park office,
2. approve the relocation of the Greenwich Police Station Contact Point to Greenwich Market in Greenwich Town Centre, subject to consultation with the local community, and
3. subject to 1 and 2 above, approve the marketing and subsequent disposal of Greenwich Police Station
Non-confidential facts and advice to the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime (DMPC)
1. Introduction and background
1.1 The MOPAC Policing and Public Access in London document identified Greenwich Police Station as a site which was unsuitable for operational requirements in the long term, and identified the need for new facilities nearby to be re-provided.
1.2 The Police Station is currently used as a deployment and neighbourhood policing base for officers, and accommodates a Contact Point.
2 Issues for consideration
2.1 As part of the Policing and Public Access in London document MOPAC has engaged with Greenwich Market and the contact point can be accommodated in the lobby of the Market Office operating at the same times as currently provided at Greenwich Police Station. Consultation will be carried out to ensure the community is supportive of these proposals.
2.2 In consultation with the Borough Commander the Greenwich Neighbourhood Policing Team can be relocated to a combination of Warspite Road, Eltham Police Station and from the Royal Parks Police base in Greenwich Park.
3 Financial Comments
3.1 If approved the sale proceeds will support the 2016-20 capital programme.
3.2 The cost of the various relocations is estimated to be £39k, and can be met from within existing MPS budgets.
3.3 The disposal of this site will deliver annual revenue costs of £500k. This will contribute to the Corporate Real Estate savings target.
4 Legal Comments
4.1 The MOPAC has the power to dispose of surplus properties ( including land) under paragraph 7 (2) (b) of Schedule 3 of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (“the Act”) . Furthermore, paragraph 7(1) of Schedule 3 of the Act allows the MOPAC to do anything which is calculated to facilitate or is conducive or incidental to the exercise of the functions of the office. Schedule 4(5) of the Act states the Commissioner must exercise the power of direction and control in such a way as is reasonable to assist the MOPAC to exercise that Office’s functions.
4.2 The report confirms the recommended option represents the best option that will support the delivery of a leaner estate which is lower in cost to run and is fit for purpose complying with modern standards, and will therefore assist MOPAC securing the maintenance of the Metropolitan Police Force, and ensure that it is efficient and effective, as required under Section 3(6) (b) of the Act.
4.3 The report confirms that a replacement contact point will be provided in the community within Greenwich Market. It is advised a detailed assessment is undertaken in relation to this proposal to ensure the location is fit for purpose and suitable for both officers and members of the public. Engagement with members of the public in relation to the delivery of policing within the area is recommended and is in-keeping with the duties under the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011.
4.4 The Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime may under the MOPAC Scheme of Consent and Delegation (‘Scheme’) approve all disposals of properties with an estimated value of £1 million or above on a case by case basis before the property is marketed. Following approval, the MPS Director of Property Services may dispose of the property to the highest bidder where the price equals or exceeds the agreed estimate, notifying the MOPAC in writing of the disposal. This report satisfies the notification requirement. The MPS Director of Property Services may under the Scheme undertake the day to day management of the MPS property function, including approval of leases up to £500,000 over the lifetime of the lease.
5. Equality Comments
5.1 No equality and diversity impacts have been identified
Signed decision document
DMPCD 2015 152