THE police station in Hexham is to undergo a refurbishment in the coming months.

Tynedale’s neighbourhood inspector Pam Bridges revealed that the building, on Shaftoe Leazes, would be given a much-needed uplift.

She was responding to fears from Hexham town councillor Tom Dodds that the station would close and officers relocate to a community building, as has been the case elsewhere in the district.

Speaking at this week’s town council meeting, Insp. Bridges said: “I can reassure people that Hexham police station is very much fit for policing purposes. There is a fear the police station may no longer be there, but in fact it is going to be refurbished. The station will not be closed while it is being refurbished.”

The news was welcomed by town councillors and Northumberland County Councillor for Hexham West, Derek Kennedy.

He said: “We’ve had so many government cuts to the police services, with officer numbers falling and stations closing, but it is an important part of our community and one we cherish.”