The development application (DA) was passed through council in January and will see Gunnedah’s police officers working in a state-of-the-art facility by the end of 2018.

The proposal originally included alterations and additions to existing buildings, however, major structural damage has called for a complete rebuild.

Oxley Acting Commander Jeff Budd and Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson joined with Gunnedah Police Inspector Michael Wurth and mayor Jamie Chaffey to discuss the plans today.

The government delivered on a promise by Mr Anderson, who confirmed today the total budget is up to $5.5 million for the project.

“For too long police and the communities they serve in regional NSW have had to put up with substandard police infrastructure. This is about providing police with the facilities they need to get on and do what they do best – protecting our communities,” Mr Anderson said.

News of a complete rebuild comes as local police continue to operate in a building that is “dangerous” and “outdated”.

“Our current facilities in Gunnedah are in complete disrepair. The station has served its purpose but is no longer conducive to policing now. I’m very impressed with the internal layout of the plans and we are looking forward to the completion of the build,” Acting Commander Budd said.

The new station will be built in an adjoining car park and housing area, with the current station to be demolished and a cell block built in its place.

Mayor Jamie Chaffey said he is pleased to see the government delivering on major infrastructure projects in the area.

“It’s a fresh start for Gunnedah, a new inspector and a new station. We are really starting to see the dollars flowing in at a local level, which is great for the community,” Cr Chaffey said.

A tender for the project will be released, with an estimated start date of June 2017.