CONSTRUCTION work on the new Macroom Garda Station, which will be the Cork County Divisional Headquarters, has moved a step closer following the signing of contracts.

JJ Rhatigan & Co has been contracted to build the new station beside the new fire station at Gurtenroe.

The two-, three- and four-storey building will be arranged around an internal courtyard with car parking on an adjacent greenfield site.

It represents a significant upgrade on the existing station, which was built in 1850 and has long been regarded as unsuitable for modern policing needs.

Cork North West Fianna Fáil TD Aindrias Moynihan confirmed that crews from JJ Rhatigan & Co will be mobilised in the weeks ahead.

‘To get to this stage there has been a great deal of background works with the various authorities including the OPW, Cork County Council, An Garda Síochána and the Department of Justice,’ said Deputy Moynihan.

‘I want to acknowledge the patience of gardaí and locals over the years. Having the new Garda HQ in Macroom will bring additional garda services and personnel and strengthen the garda presence locally.’

Cork North West TD John Paul O’Shea said: ‘This… commencement of works is tangible progress on a project that has been badly needed for many years,’ said Deputy O’Shea.

‘Our gardaí deserve modern, safe and functional facilities and this new station and divisional headquarters will deliver exactly that.’

Cllr Ted Lucey (FG) said the project ‘is long overdue’ adding: ‘The conditions gardaí have been working in are far from acceptable. It is great to see this project finally becoming a reality for Macroom.’