The development application has been approved by MidCoast Council and the tender process has closed, but there is still not indication from the State government when construction work to upgrade Tea Gardens Police Station will begin
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More than 12 months ago Premier Gladys Berejiklian visited the community announcing the State government would inject $1 million into the ageing structure.
The announcement was made as rumours swirled the government was going to close the weatherboard station following the merger of Port Stephens and parts of the existing Central Hunter commands in 2017.
But, the community remains frustrated over the progress of the upgrade and hasn't received any official word of when the work will begin.
"I find it strange that we are not informed of what is to be done, just a cone of silence," Gordon Grainger said.
"We found a DA in council for improvements calling for a replacement of the demountable only - cost $154,000.
"Our inquiries as to what else is happening go nowhere.
"Why the secrecy?"
NSW Upper House Member for the Hunter, Taylor Martin assured his government would go ahead with the upgrade.
"Funding totalling $934,000 over two years has been prioritised for upgrade of Tea Gardens Police Station under the NSW Police Force Regional Small Police Station Program, part of the $118 million 2018-19 budget announcement for police property capital works," Mr Martin said.
"Tenders have now closed for the building works.
"The evaluation process is underway and the successful tenderer will be announced shortly.
"The existing building will remain operational with the upgrade works providing additional space for operating requirements and allow for future expansion.
"The heritage aspects of the existing building will not be affected by the project works.
"Following completion of the building phase of works, a review of the condition of the existing building will be undertaken with a view to refreshing the workspace.
"Project completion is scheduled for June 2020."
Despite several requests, Mr Grainger also said requests for information on the number of police stationed in the area had gone unanswered.
"We have the one cop who has moved into the the local house and is still covering Karuah.
"One cop for three positions."
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