PSNI: Belfast's Safety Centre Will Remain Open

The future of a PSNI state-of-the-art safety centre in Belfast has been secured, the force has revealed.

It was speculated earlier this year that the risk and avoidance of danger awareness resource (RADAR) would be forced to close its doors due to a lack of funding.

The facility has been operating since 2015 and teaches children and young people the importance of road, fire, home and transport safety.

Tens of thousands of youngsters have been on educational visits to the centre in the last three years.

It features a life-size model street, bus and train stops, police station and a courthouse and is one of the most advanced of its kind throughout the UK.

The PSNI announced it will remain open on Friday 07 December, confirming that funding has been secured for the next 12 months.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd said: "In August we advised the public that the Risk Avoidance and Danger Awareness Resource (RADAR) was to close in December due to budgetary pressures and other factors. At the time we also said that we would continue to work with Government Departments and key stakeholders to explore any further options to keep the Centre open.

"Over the past number of months we have been working closely with our colleagues in the Department of Justice and the Department of Finance and others, and I am pleased to say that we have secured both funding and lease arrangements for a further 12 months which will in turn allow us time to develop a sustainable future for the Centre."

Mr Todd confirmed that staff have been advised of the positive development.

He added: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have worked to make today's announcement possible and look forward to continuing to work with them to secure the future of this wonderful and valuable facility.

"The RADAR Centre remains open for business and we are taking bookings for 2019."



(JG)