MP admits safety concern state, cops ‘in talks on park’

Alex de Vos
Negotiations are underway to protect Geelong police from street assaults after State Government wiped out their station’s car park, a city MP has revealed.
Member for Geelong Ian Trezise acknowledged the “concern” of police for their safety after losing their parks, leaving them with long walks in the dark after finishing night shifts.
Earlier this month the Independent revealed officers were furious the Government had torn up the park to make way for a pedestrian link between Geelong Railway Station and central Geelong.
The project had forced officers to walk as far as two kilometres to their cars at what they described as “intrusive hours”, putting them at risk of encountering drunks and criminals earlier released from custody.
The officers previously had quick, relatively secure access to their cars behind the station after finishing late-night shifts.
Mr Trezise admitted the Government project had created a safety risk for police.
He said it was “important” for local officers to have a secure private car park.
“Negotiations are underway about where private vehicles will be parked and I understand it’s a concern,” Mr Trezise said.
Earlier this month Police Association Senior Sergeant Greg Davies accused the Government of compromising the lives of Geelong police to save commuters walking an extra 50 metres to the city centre.
“What happens now if a member locks up a couple of violent offenders then knocks off at 11pm they could end up meeting these people again in the streets,” Snr Sgt Davies said.
“It sets police up for confrontations with offenders who they’ve dealt with earlier in the night – it’s a huge safety issue.”
Liberal candidate for Geelong Alastair Thomson said the project highlighted the Government’s lack of consultation.
“It’s another case of the Brumby Government not consulting with local stakeholders and window dressing the real issues,” Mr Thomson said.
“The $24 million (railway project cost) could have been better spent on local police forces fighting crime.
“Police can be targets and need secure protection for their vehicles while on the job.”