Advice at the station

THREATENED charities may have found a solution to prevent them from being homeless, by proposing a permanent move to Dunmow's old police station.

The Dunmow branch of the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), led by Chairman David Wolfe, has already made enquiries into a move to the Stortford Road site and announced that a feasibility study will be undertaken.

He said: "Our current offices at the Uttlesford District Council building on the High Street will be sold off very shortly so we have to begin the search for a new home.

"The station is an ideal location because it is big enough not only to take us but maybe a few of the other 13 charities who share our current location."

The CAB also announced that a record numbers of clients are seeking advice, with over 1000 registered with the branch.

"Bigger offices are needed but the problems will be funding the project," said Mr Wolfe, "The old station will take thousands of pounds to repair and refurbish before it can be used.

"But we are determined to carry out a feasibility study to see if the option is viable. This is a vital step forward."

Mr Wolfe has enlisted the help of a surveyor who will be doing the study at no cost to the charity. But he admitted it could cost in the region of �500,000 to buy the building from Essex Police and then renovate.

Dunmow Town councillor Trudi Hughes backed the CAB, saying that their services will be needed even more in the near future as people turn to them for advice on housing, jobs and finance.

She said: "They do a very good job and I am sure people will continue to come through the doors. It is important they have a permanent home to serve the community from."

Dunmow old police station closed last year (except two hours on Tuesday and Saturday mornings) when the new Chelmsford Road building opened in June.

It will be up for sale once the police open a new beat surgery at Dunmow's new library in May.