Lancashire Police HQ in Hutton: this is what people had to say about the £75m overhaul to the police HQ

The news was annouced last week by Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Andrew Snowden, who explained that the current sites in Saunders Lane and the mounted branch in Lindle Lane, were “end of life”

Problems include staff operating out of converted bedrooms in on-site 1950s houses with leaky roofs, a lack of parking causing an overspill onto residential roads and the electrical infrastructure unsuitable for upgrading the vehicle fleet to electric.

Mr Snowden said the work would support 21st century policing and “The transformation of Lancashire Constabulary's HQ site would be a landmark moment for policing and crime prevention here in Lancashire.”

He also said that the plans had received positive feedback in recent meetings, with neighbours “relieved” the site wouldn’t be sold for housing.

What did readers say?

But readers were more cynical about the plans.

Anne Macdonald said: “Is this an excuse to close it completely and merg with other forces? I hope not! I completed a training course there about 12 years ago and it seemed fine then.”

Kathryn Shone said: “The artists impression is a misrepresentation as it doesn't show the field they are digging up as right behind our houses which is where it is.

"Also the entrance they want to use is on a bad bend on Saunders Lane with two nurseries within 100 yards each way and school children using it daily. Good idea that!!!!

"While I'm at it the bit about thinking about the neighbours is rubbish as it would cost a lot more to totally relocate. Just a PR exercise. Field is green belt with an abundance of wildlife. Heck yes dig it up and plant a few trees to keep ‘em happy.”

Gary Bootle wrote: “Seems like a vanity project led by senior officers, and who will pay?

"It will be the hard-pressed tax payers of Lancashire, through soaring council tax bills, when people are facing a cost of living crisis.

"Maybe at the moment money would be better spent on more officers and better rewarding the ones already serving, who we depend on, so they can put their heating on.”