Thornhill Police Station

Introduction

Thornhill Police Station is no longer in continuous use and is due to be declared surplus to requirements by Police Scotland.

The OST are working with South of Scotland Community Housing (SOSCH) to explore ways to secure ownership with the aim to redevelop and bring the Police Station back into use to provide:

  • community-led affordable homes

  • child-care/nursery facilities

  • office/studio space

❋ Housing & Community Needs

The recent Housing Needs and Demands Assessment (HDNA) undertaken by SOSCH identified a strong demand for affordable housing for rent, for a mixture of people, including families, older residents and retirees with reduced mobility.

The consultation for the Draft Local Place Plan for Thornhill identified a clear need for additional childcare options to provide wrap-around care covering after-school, pre-school and summer holiday periods. The existing school is unable to meet this demand and the OST’s current youth space is too small. There is scope for the Police Station to fulfil this need. 

❋ Existing Building

Thornhill Police Station was constructed from fine ashlar sandstone in 1909 and is Category C Listed. It was originally built with a pair of adjoining houses next to the Police station.

The building was altered in the 1990s to incorporate the upper floor of the pair of houses with the Police Station and the former One Stop Shop for the Council to the remainder of the ground floor. 

❋ Housing Requirements

The housing element of the project must align with the Scottish Housing Quality Standard, EESSH2 and Housing for Varying Needs guidance, while meeting reasonable cost parameters for the delivery of affordable housing.

  • "...I think a wrap around service for school kids would be excellent. The location works very well for this need [also] being over the road from the school"

    Anonymous survey response

  • "Another progressive project by the OST. Get in!"

    Anonymous Survey Response

  • "There is a need for affordable housing to both buy and to rent"

    Anonymous survey response