Bulli Police Station, Courthouse For Sale

Illawarra Mercury

Monday September 17, 2007

By MICHELLE HOCTOR

BULLI Police Station and adjoining courthouse buildings will be sold by the NSW Government.

NSW Police Minister David Campbell confirmed the 90-year-old buildings would be placed on the market "some time in the next few months".

While anticipating community opposition to the move, Mr Campbell said the buildings had been vacant for the past decade, resulting in a waste of taypayer dollars.

"Police have determined the buildings are surplus to their needs," he said.

"It's been nearly 10 years since it (the police station) was operational.

"I don't think taxpayers can afford to waste money tied up with it any more."

Mr Campbell said a $1.65 million upgrade of Corrimal Police Station, which involves refurbishment of the muster room, general duties area, front counter and highway patrol accommodation, would be completed by November and would more than adequately service the community's needs.

"I have long argued I would rather our police were on the streets instead of sitting in an office," Mr Campbell said.

"Some people have an expectation a station should be staffed and open 24 hours a day.

"I want police out of the police station so they have a high profile and can respond more quickly."

The buildings, which are listed on Wollongong City Council's Local Environment Plan as buildings of regional significance, made headlines in 2003 when the alarm was raised that they could be demolished.

Mr Campbell said it was yet to be determined whether expressions of interest would be called or if the buildings would be auctioned.

© 2007 Illawarra Mercury

Back to News Index | Back to Home