Southbank to get its police station

After many years of waiting, Southbank Local News understands that a site has been selected for a new Southbank Police Station.

Despite not being a Southbank address, Southbank Local News understands that the building at 66-76 Moray St, South Melbourne will operate under the name of Southbank Police Station.

While the station’s site can be confirmed, specific details and plans won’t be officially announced by the State Government and Victoria Police until the building’s lease is formally signed by State Treasury, which is expected to occur within the coming month.

The new station will replace St Kilda Rd Police Station, which currently responds to the zone covering Southbank, South Wharf and Fishermans Bend.

In welcoming the news, Southbank Residents Group president Tony Penna said a police station had been on the community’s wish list for a very long time.

“The residents of Southbank have been calling for a Southbank police station for years,” he said. “Southbank Residents Group has been advocating for and lobbying government for years as well.”

“The location should serve the immediate needs of the community well. We are looking forward to seeing it operational.”

According to City of Melbourne Cr Ken Ong, council had looked at ways of improving the active surveillance of Southbank, as a result of community consultation since 2009.

One of the proposals was to build a temporary police “pod” at Queensbridge Square, pending a decision by Victoria Police on the permanent location of a police station after the closure of the St Kilda Road station.

Cr Ong said it was positive that the community finally had some assurance.

“From my perspective, the decision will remove many questions about if there was going to be one (a police station) for Southbank,” he said.

“I am sure that VicPol has thoroughly investigated many sites and have decided that this one will meet their operation needs and satisfy the community’s expectations.”

Yarra River Business Association executive officer Tim Bracher also welcomed the news and labeled the location as “excellent”.

“On paper it looks an excellent location for servicing not only the promenade, but also the residential areas of Southbank and the future suburb of Fishermans Bend,” he said.

“Theoretically, they will only be 60 to 90 seconds away from our main trouble spots, obviating the need for a police pod on the promenade, although the regular foot patrols Friday to Sunday are always appreciated.”