Debate over future of policing in Giffnock

The meeting, which drew interest from Barrhead and Clarkston, was called by Giffnock community council and Thornliebank and Giffnock tenants and residents association over news that there would be changes to the way police operate in the area.

All locally elected representatives were present and was the only public consultation on the Police Scotland proposals in East Renfrewshire.

Explaining the police forces overview was chief inspector Campbell Crawford.

CI Crawford stressed that the changes wouldn’t lessen police presence on the streets — if anything, it would maximise police on the streets

But concerns were raised over the decision to close Giffnock police office between the hours of midnight and 7am — and CI Crawford confirmed further cuts may happen.

Chair of Giffnock CC, Savio D’Souza said: “This was the first consultation with Police Scotland as a single force.

“The station office is an important interface and if the role is changing, there needs to be debate about how we move forward.”

Lisa Paton, from Thornliebank and Giffnock tenants and residents association, said: “By working in partnership, we need to ensure there is meaningful dialogue, data and discussion to ensure there is community involvement and confidence in the decision-making process.”

Later, there was a presentation by ERC’s community safety team and advice by trading standards on cold callers.