A staggering £232 million is now required to bring Police Scotland's crumbling estate up to a basic standard, a damning report has revealed. The force's infrastructure is in a state of severe disrepair, with many stations deemed unfit for purpose.
The Scottish Police Authority (SPA) report lays bare a crisis of leaking roofs, failing heating systems, and custody suites that are not fit for modern policing. The monumental repair bill has skyrocketed from a previous estimate of £180 million, highlighting a rapidly worsening situation.
Critical Failures in Custody Suites
Among the most alarming findings are the critical conditions of custody facilities. The report identifies widespread failures in cell infrastructure, including faulty cell call bells and inadequate ventilation systems. These deficiencies pose significant risks to both officer safety and the welfare of those in custody.
A Legacy of Neglect and Underfunding
The crisis is largely attributed to years of underinvestment and a legacy of neglect following the merger of eight regional forces into Police Scotland in 2013. The force inherited an vast and ageing portfolio of over 420 properties, many of which were already in poor condition and have deteriorated further.
Despite efforts to consolidate and close some stations, the backlog of maintenance continues to grow faster than it can be addressed. This has created a vicious cycle where essential repairs are delayed, ultimately leading to even higher costs down the line.
Political Fallout and Calls for Action
The scandal has ignited a fierce political debate, with opposition parties laying the blame squarely at the feet of the Scottish Government. The Scottish Conservatives have condemned the SNP's handling of police funding, labelling the situation a "national disgrace" that compromises public safety.
There are now urgent calls for the Scottish Government to commit to a dedicated capital funding plan to address this infrastructure emergency. The future of effective policing in Scotland, it seems, depends on the walls around its officers not literally falling down.
