Conflict over PSNI plans to sell stations

The North's Policing Board will later today discuss the chief constable's proposals to sell off 26 police stations.

Unionists are opposed to the move, claiming it could make it easier for dissident republicans to operate, but both the SDLP and Sinn Féin agree with the closure plan.

The Chief Constable Hugh Orde has already, in effect, closed all 26 stations except one.

Moss is growing on their roofs and grass breaks through in their paved areas.

The Chief Constable didn't need the board's approval to close them down, as that's an operational matter and outside the board's remit, but he does need its permission to sell off the properties.

The board's chairman Barry Gilligan said it was vital to use scarce resources to the best effect and people everywhere deserved the best policing possible.

This is only the first phase of police stations earmarked for closure.

Two-thirds of the North's 108 stations only open part-time and at least another 20 more may close soon.