The Peterborough Police Service is going to be getting a second facility for administrative functions.
City officials have confirmed the purchase of 1421 Lansdowne Street West, a property currently owned by Calvary Pentecostal Church. The price tag for the acquisition is $15 million and it’s expected to close in February.
The move addresses a long-standing need to meet growing space requirements for policing in the community in a way that is fiscally responsible and strategic, Mayor Jeff Leal said.
“A new police station was estimated to cost $68 million in 2017. The property and construction costs would be much higher today. With the former Johnston & Johnston property acquisition, we’re able to maintain the downtown police station on Water Street for police operations, add a second police facility for administrative and support services, and have additional land and building space for other municipal needs,” Leal said. “Even with the future renovation costs, this is the most financially responsible path, addressing a critical need.”
Police Chief Stu Betts believes this is the most fiscally responsible solution, adding it’s expected that the costs of the renovations will be significantly less than the cost of a new-build facility. Renovations meantime are anticipated to take a few years to complete.
What about the current headquarters at 500 Water Street?
“I strongly believe the presence of a police facility in the downtown area is a must. There is no intention to leave the 500 Water Street location. The current location at 500 Water Street will continue to be the base of operations and investigations,” said Betts.
For Calvary Pentecostal Church, the agreement to allow the Church to use part of the building for up to five years following the sale will provide the Church with time to plan for the transition.
