Hunter Valley Local Area Command local area commander Des Organ said police from Scone and Muswellbrook would continue to police the area with Scone located about 16 km away and the 24 hour Muswellbrook station located about 18 km away.

“I am aware such a decision might cause concern to the community,” Superintendent Organ said.

But, he said he was determined to ensure police would continue to service the Aberdeen community.

“My role is to continually provide a policing response,” Superi-

ntendent Organ said.

The Aberdeen police station was a single officer unit, but Superintendent Organ said the officer had been off due to a long sickness and the station has not been manned for about 12 months.

Superintendent Organ said the officer has returned to full duties and is working at the Muswellbrook Police Station where he will continue to work after he moves from the Aberdeen residence.

State Member for Upper Hunter George Souris said news of the closure was completely unexpected and could not be tolerated.

“I have confirmed that NSW Police HQ’s Property Department will list the property for sale in the immediate future and has no plans to re-establish a police presence, be it a shop front or alternative,” Mr Souris said.

“What a Christmas present, a “For Sale” sign in the heart of this progressive and proud town and district,” he said.

“Aberdeen is not a momentary village sighting on a dusty highway, it is a thriving town with a large Catholic High School, a Public School and a large residential community working in mines and industry nearby.”

Superintendent Organ said he has been informed the sale process has started and will go through the normal process.

“It’s a matter of police like all Government agencies looking at the management of its assets,” Superintendent Organ said.

“We constantly assess what’s going on and what the needs are,” he said.

“We can deploy additional resources when needed.”

Superintendent Organ said he did not envisage closing any other Police Stations in the Upper Hunter.

“They are certainly not looking at reducing police numbers at Scone at this stage,” he said.