PLANS to move Widnes police station to Halton Stadium have been shelved after an alternative location has been found.

Cheshire Police is now considering relocating to John Briggs House in Gerrard Street, which is closer to the town centre.

The Constabulary is seeking views from residents about this proposal. 

The existing police station in Kingsway is increasingly run-down. It would cost around £2 million to renovate the building to a modern standard. Currently, the Constabulary cannot afford this sum.

A recent root and branch review of policing undertaken by Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner John Dwyer found that the police station was too large for the Widnes neighbourhood team and many parts of it were unoccupied. It also lacked modern facilities.

The large site has potential to be redeveloped and provide important regeneration space for the town.

With these factors in mind, working closely with Halton Council, the Constabulary started to look for alternative premises near the town centre.

Police say John Briggs House site has advantages because it is within five minutes walk of the old station, but closer to the town centre and bus routes.

It has parking for visitors and personnel, and can provide access to the technology needed in modern-day policing.

Front-desk opening hours and services to the public would not be affected by the relocation.

The survey closes on Wednesday, October 1, 2014.

Results will be reported to the Police and Crime Commissioner shortly after and feedback from the survey will be published on the Support Cheshire Police website the same day.

If the proposals are supported, the Constabulary would look to relocate within six months.

The survey can be completed online at supportcheshirepolice.com.

Printed copies are also available from Widnes police station.