River crossing expands the CBD's police beat
A CROSS-RIVER relocation has created room for additional police on the beat in Ipswich, but the hierarchy is remaining coy about when they will arrive.
Commissioner Ian Stewart and Police Minister Jack Dempsey were at Riverlink yesterday to mark the official opening of the new police beat, which is positioned next to the head office at the popular shopping centre.
The Ipswich Mall beat's single administration officer and two police officers made the move across the bridge on December 5.
The new shop space, which was offered free of charge by Riverlink owners Leda Group, has room to accommodate nine officers.
Mr Stewart said he believed the shift would result in the enhancement of services on either side of the Bremer.
"Our police effort certainly isn't confined within the walls of the shopping centre," he said.
"The beat includes the CBD and the beauty of the new building is that there is room to expand.
"Over time we will certainly be looking at the level of resources."
Despite refusing to comment on when additional police might be sent to the new beat office, Mr Stewart said a comprehensive review, initiated by the State Government, was under way with a view to allocating more police to frontline duties.
Inspector Merv Adamson said people could expect to see an increase in bicycle patrols around Riverlink, with officers from the Ipswich police station working with officers at the new beat.
Another recent acquisition - the Rhino all terrain vehicle - should also become a regular sight around the shopping precinct.
Councillor Andrew Antoniolli said he would be pushing for additional officers to be sent to the new police beat as soon as possible.
"I would implore the police service to put additional police here - there is already a need for it," Cr Antoniolli said.
"I would certainly like to see an additional two police officers here."
The new beat office will be open during normal business hours, and from 9am to 9pm on Thursdays.
