Local Fine Gael public representatives, Deputy Peter Burke and Cllr John Dolan, have welcomed the continuing progress of refurbishment work to Athlone Garda station.
Speaking this week, Minister of State, Deputy Burke noted that while this is a long-awaited refurbishment, it is welcomed by local Gardaí who require a modern station and working environment.
“I know this significant refurbishment has been in process for a long period, following the award of a contract for the refurbishment of Athlone Garda station in 2018.
“The project includes the significant refurbishment, extension and alteration of the existing An Garda Siochána station to include the adjacent former Government buildings.
“The total spent to date including enabling works, main contractor and associated site costs amounts to €7.342m.
“This is significant government funding for the town of Athlone and I commend my colleagues Minister Helen McEntee and Minister Patrick O’Donovan for liaising with local representatives on the refurbishment,” Deputy Burke asserted.
Councillor John Dolan added that the new refurbished building will be better suited to the needs of the local members of An Garda Siochana.
“I know the Garda station required a revamp and improvements to make it an appropriate and modern working environment.
“It is also welcome to see the former Social Protection office being brought into use and it will be space well used for district policing, training and a variety of operations that are undertaken here in Athlone.
“All three phases of development, when completed, will be a great addition for the town of Athlone for years to come,” Cllr Dolan enthused.