COP SHOPS CHOPPED

MSPs concerned over widespread sell-off

- BY NORMAN SILVESTER

ALMOST four out of 10 police stations have been axed in Scotland since the formation of the national force, the Record can reveal.

Last year alone, 37 offices were in the process of being sold or closed, had been sold or not had their leases renewed.

According to the latest Police Scotland figures, released under Freedom of Information, 202 stations have been lost since 2013.

There are about 337 left - a drop of almost 40 per cent since the eight regional forces were amalgamated.

David Kennedy, general secretary of the Scottish Police Federation, which represents rank and file officers, said: "The police estate has not been looked after and that in turn is why they are closing down.