We must prevent police withdrawal from communities
John Finnie MSP, Justice spokesperson for the Scottish Greens, has today (7 Nov) written to the Chief Constable after it emerged that dozens of police stations are under threat of closure.
Buildings in 58 locations are being reviewed.
Details have emerged in response to a Freedom of Information request from BBC Scotland.
John Finnie, Justice spokesperson for the Scottish Greens and MSP for the Highlands and Islands, said:
"Of course all organisations should review processes and I don't doubt some of these buildings will be less than ideal for modern needs but some of the locations on the list are very worrying. For instance, to see five stations in Argyll under threat suggests we could have no police presence on the West coast at all, and it's simply bizarre to think communities the size of Ayr and Leith could have no police station.
"While many people do use phone and the internet to interact with police, there is still a significant number of people - many elderly and vulnerable - who do not. Accessibility is paramount.
"In the past, Police Scotland have handled counter closures badly, so lessons must be learned. While there is much to be said for co-location of public services, we must prevent withdrawal from communities. Public confidence is vital. I look forward to the Chief Constable's reply."
Location of police properties under review:
North: Broughty Ferry, Bridge of Earn, Stanley, Letham, Muirhead, Carnoustie.
East: Bannockburn, Bridge of Allan, Bo'ness, Bainsford, Tullibody, Anstruther, Edinburgh High Street, Leith, Armadale, Fauldhouse, Blackburn, Gorebridge, Loanhead, Hawick, Haddington, Bonnyrigg, Newbattle.
West: Pollockshaws, Barrhead, Giffnock, Erskine, Gourock, Lochwinnoch, Port Glagow, Kilmacolm, Carradale, Lochgilphead, Taynuilt, Campbeltown, Inverary, Oban, Blantyre, Carluke, Larkhall, Lesmahagow, Shotts, Hamilton, Rutherglen, Biggar, Cambuslang, Ayr, Galston, Kilwinning, Largs, Dalry (Dumfries and Galloway), Dalbeattie, Gretna, Kirkcudbright, Langholm, Moffat, Thornhill, Whithorn.