Completed in 15 weeks, the multi-million dollar project includes four new cells with double holding capacity, additional offices and storage facilities, and a new van dock, and an entry ramp with vehicle access off Little Street.

The reconfigured internal area of the police station accommodates a charge room and three docks, secured corridor to cell area, ERISP room (used for electronically recorded interview of a suspect), AVL (audio visual link) room, for remote court appearances and an office for Department of Corrective Services (DCS).

With the Taree Police Station building earmarked for demolition and replaced with a new purpose built station during the next 18 months, the role of the Forster Police Station and courthouse was expected to change.

During the Taree redevelopment period the workload at Forster will increase as all prisoners within the Manning Great Lakes Police District will be processed through the local facility.

“We have invested over $2.3 million, including state-of-the art surveillance and security and upgrades to mechanical, electrical and fire services,” Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said.

“The project team has done a great job delivering the entire project over 15 weeks.”

The alterations and additions to the existing police station will modernise and improve service delivery to the local community and to meet the operational needs of the NSW Police within Forster now and into the future, Mr Bromhead said.

Chief inspector Tony Power said the project was undertaken in consultation with local police.

“This is absolutely fantastic,” he said.

“This will be good for the command and better for the police,” he said.

He said the improvements made conditions safer for both the police and the public.