THE Telegraph's exclusive story on the proposed closure of Greenock police station was today highlighted in the Scottish Parliament.

West Scotland MSP Paul O’Kane spoke at First Minister's Questions about the closure of the station which is reported to be taking place within the next six to nine months.

Mr O'Kane asked Deputy First Minister Shona Robison to give a 'guarantee' that Inverclyde will have a 'proper police station' after the Rue End Street site is mothballed.

The senior Labour politician said: "The Greenock Telegraph reported on Monday that Greenock police station is likely to be closed and mothballed within a matter of months. 

"Despite reassurances that a police presence will be maintained in the area, no alternatives sites for the station have been proposed.

"The closure of the Rue End Street station could leave K Division without adequate custody suites meaning that officers must make hour-long trips to Glasgow in order to process people accused of crimes. 

"This [story] came before this morning's news that Police Scotland have confirmed plans to close 40 buildings in the estate in the coming year. 

"This is another demonstration of the state that this government have let the police estate fall into. 

"Can I ask the deputy First Minister is she proud of the condition of the police estate, presided over by amongst others, the current First Minister when he was justice secretary?

"Will she give a guarantee that a proper police station will be provided to Inverclyde to ensure local people feel safe?

Deputy First Minister Shona Robison said what would happen to the station was an 'operational decision'.

She added: "Police perform an essential role in keeping our communities safe which is why despite the difficult financial circumstances, we have increased police funding by £80m over the last year to £1.45bn for 2023/24. 

"The issue of Police Scotland's estate strategy is an operational decision and they are looking at the issue of properties so they can develop modern premises capable of delivering effective and efficient public services to meet the needs of people and staff who use them.

"We will continue to support our Police Scotland service in making sure that going forward they have an estate that's fit for purpose."