A NEW police station in the heart of Bacup is already being well-used by adults and youngsters, according to a borough councillor.

The long-awaited police office in Union Street was officially opened with a community day being held on Saturday.

And the constabulary drop-in centre, which will be home to neighbourhood officers covering the town, is already being used by young and old.

Coun Jimmy Eaton said: “The doors have been actually open for the last few days and people have been coming and going there.

“I think it’s really good for the town centre and gives people peace of mind to know that there’s a police presence there.”

Plans for the police base were originally drawn up, then shelved, for premises at the corner of St James Street and South Street, to replace the old station in Bank Street, which has now been redeveloped as high-end apartments.

The new police office finally ensures the Union Street parade will be fully occupied - for several years bookmakers Ladbrokes were the only tenants.

But Ann’s clothing relocated there from Pioneer Buildings, Cloud 9 Gallery opened and a fifth store is also set to open there.