That’s the vision of Manning Great Lakes Police District commander Detective Superintendent Shane Cribb after design plans for the upgrade of Taree Police Station were unveiled on Wednesday, April 18.

The station is set to include a regional police charge facility, a breath analysis and drug test facility, CCTV and audio visual links, new work spaces for all officers, secure parking for police vehicles, a small gym, meal facility and modern foyer.

Commander Cribb said the upgrade has been on the radar for many years and has the support of officers. 

"The condition the cops have had to work in for some 30 years or more aren't the best. They've put up with it and have done a good job and now they can see the rewards of what is to come.

"For the town itself as well, it'll be something that people can look forward to.

"I know our own police are very excited,” Commander Cribb said. 

He added that officer safety is paramount and the station will reflect the notion. 

"Unfortunately, not everyone who comes into the police station is a popular customer so we've made it very safe for our police.

"I want the police station to work for those who work in it.

“I'm talking about those who are out there day in day out, two o'clock in the morning and Christmas Day.

"I want them to feel safe in there, I want them to feel like they are valued,” Commander Cribb said. 

New custody and charge rooms will be practical for access to Taree Court House.

"Right now we have to escort our prisoners through a number of corridors to get to the court house,” Commander Cribb said. 

He believes the station has also considered the future of the Manning community.

"We need to be mindful that the towns are growing, the policing numbers are growing so there's no good having a police station that in 10 years time we (fit in),” Commander Cribb said. 

A temporary home for officers is set to be finalised later this week or early next week.

"When we do finalise that location, I will make sure the community is aware of where we are.

"I'll make sure we are still contactable, we'll still be able to respond to jobs.

"We all realise as police, short term pain for a long term gain,” Commander Cribb said. 

If police numbers increase at the station, Commander Cribb said the new facility would manage for space.

"I want more police as everyone does,” Commander Cribb said.

Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said the upgrades are important to the officers and the Manning community. 

"As an ex-police officer, law and order is high on my agenda.

"I'm sure at the end of this, not only will the police officers that work so hard on our behalf, but the community will benefit.

"This is something we've all been pushing for for a long time but the great thing is we're delivering,” Mr Bromhead said. 

The total cost of the project won’t be determined until tenders and contracts are signed.

Funds will be derived from the 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 State Government budgets. 

Construction is set to begin in the coming months with completion expected before the end of 2019.