Updated: A proposal to demolish the “degrading structure” of Bitterne police station on Bursledon Road, closed since 2016, has been filed with Southampton City Council.
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The application comes from the police and crime commissioner’s (PPC's) office.
A document accompanying the move, which seeks prior approval to demolish the structure, suggests that demolition “is now required with the property no longer required”.
It says the police station underwent “extensive stripping out of internal finishes and fixtures” when it was closed in 2016, and now it’s hoped demolition can take place “at the earliest availability”.
There are currently no plans to construct any new property on the site, according to the document.
In 2020 there was talk by the former PCC Michael Lane of revamping and reopening Bitterne police station and using it as a base for additional police officers.
But while various stations around the Hampshire and Isle of Wight region have been opened for public access, with current PCC Donna Jones saying in 2023 her plan was to “ensure there is a police station open to the public in every district across our two counties”, by 2024 whether to demolish or refurbish the Bitterne asset was still being considered.
Several other stations elsewhere have recently been announced for reopening.
According to the police.uk ‘find a police station’ website, the closest station to Bitterne is currently Portswood, although as reported a station on West End Road was opened in 2022 as a "response and patrol base"..
Update 2/9/25: Subsequently responding to a comment request, PCC Donna Jones said:
“Bitterne Police Station on West End Road was the first station I opened in 2022 after my election as Police and Crime Commissioner.
“It’s an important location for our neighbourhood and response teams with around 50 officers working there every week - reinforcing my commitment to having a high police presence in the east of the city.
“Members of the public are offered quick and easy contact with the officers inside through the yellow phone outside the building.
“The original police station adjacent is beyond economic repair and is no longer fit for purpose.
“All options for the site are being looked at.”