Police force to sell eight buildings

Eight of the small buildings are to be put on the market as, even though they are currently unused, their upkeep costs South Yorkshire Police money.

The chairman of the South Yorkshire Police Authority, Charles Perryman, said: "These are police boxes or small section houses that are very little used. They're old, they're in the wrong places and they remain very expensive to run.

"Having done a significant review of the estate that we've got, the question was asked – are they essential for our operation?

"We've consulted with the local community and with councils, and come to the conclusion that they are surplus to requirements. They're costing us money and so our intention is to sell them off."

Police boxes have become surplus to requirements as police officers now carry radios and most people are also able to contact the emergency services by mobile phone. Section houses, meanwhile, were formerly used as accommodation for unmarried police officers, but officers are now normally expected to find their own accommodation.

Mr Perryman added: "Things such as providing telephones in the boxes cost money and, given the current financial circumstances, it is in our interest to sell them."