§ Mr. DismoreTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received concerning the closure of Hendon police station; and if he will make a statement. [7546]
§ Mr. MichaelI have received no representations concerning the closure of Hendon police station. I understand that as long ago as 1992, the Metropolitan Police's building strategy identified the need for a new police station in the London Borough of Barnet and a new Area Headquarters for 2 Area. The investment of an 95W £8.8 million new building was based on relinquishment of other now redundant police buildings, leading to a review of policing strategy and tactics in the Borough. The findings were published as "Policing Barnet 2000", which included recommendations to amalgamate the Golders Green and West Hendon Divisions and to close Hendon police station due to its age, running costs and usage.
I understand that the closure of Hendon police station has been set for 15 October. Colindale police station, which replaces Hendon and is a charging station as well as being the new 2 Area Headquarters, opened on 10 March.