WORK is expected to get under way in the coming months on a new Garda station in Newcastle West which will serve as the headquarters for Community Engagement in the Limerick Garda Division
This follows confirmation of planning approval for the three-storey 1,151 square metre building which is now proceeding to the procurement stage and the drafting of tender documentation.
It will replace the old Garda station on the same 0.1651 hectare site and will provide the operational, functional and accommodation requirements to deliver the new Garda Operating Model.
Local Fine Gael TD and Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Patrick O’Donovan said it is envisaged that works on site will commence after the summer of this year.
“I am delighted to see progress on this programme of planned construction for a new purpose built Limerick County Community Engagement Area Headquarters in Newcastle West which will enhance the Garda presence in the town while facilitating the policing infrastructure capacity for the region and the surrounding areas,” he said.
The new Garda operating model will implement four functional areas in each Garda division:
Community engagement, including roads and community policing.
Crime, including serious crime, security intelligence and immigration.
Performance assurance, including performance and standards, discipline and engagement with GSOC
Business services, including finance and logistics, human resources and general administration
“The new model will see more front-line Gardaí, a stronger focus on community policing, and a wide-range of policing services delivered locally,” Minister O’Donovan added.
