THE Wee County's police operations in Clackmannanshire could be based out of Kilncraigs, as a major community consultation is launched this week.

Police Scotland is assessing the possibility of vacating the current police office on Mar Place, Alloa, and "co-locating" at the council offices in the town.

Officials are currently seeking views on the matter, with the proposals put forth as a strategy to improve relations with the public.

The proposals are said to be aimed at enhancing the "extensive partnership working" already in place between the two organisations, while deliver public services which "meet the needs of our local communities in a more integrated way".

Police Scotland said it is committed to maintaining a presence within local communities, but recognise that having accommodation at Kilncraigs can deliver enhanced local visibility and accessibility for the community.

Chief Inspector Drew Sinclair, area commander for Clackmannanshire, said: “Police Scotland is adapting how it provides local services across the country to best suit the needs and demands of the communities we serve.

“This consultation will give a valuable insight into how people in Clackmannanshire want to be able to access policing resources, and we look forward to reviewing the findings and establishing a community-centred approach, and building on existing partnership arrangements to provide further collaborations within the local area.

“These links will provide improved outcomes for local residents and strengthen the relationship between our officers and the people we work to keep safe.”

Final approval for any proposals will be made by both Clackmannanshire Council and the Scottish Police Authority.

Council Leader Cllr Ellen Forson added: “I encourage local residents and businesses to give us their views via the quick, online survey.

“We’re always looking at ways to provide a more joined up service to local people, but I’d like to stress that we are seeking to understand stakeholder and community views that will influence the development of options for a business case.”

Members of the publica can give their views online at clackmannanshire.citizenspace.com/communications-department/sharingspaceccps

The consultation will run until Tuesday July 31, with those seeking more information asked to email clacksproject@clacks.gov.uk