Carlisle police station was badly damaged in the floods

The north Cumbria headquarters in Rickergate was among scores of buildings hit by the floods which devastated Carlisle in January.

But a planned new custody suite at the force's traffic base at Houghton sparked an angry reaction from residents in the suburb.

Now force chiefs say they have amended plans to take account of concerns.

The force says it will now provide guaranteed transport for all prisoners, base two community officers at the new site and set-up a community forum to monitor the facility.

Assistant Chief Constable Neil Rhodes said: "The residents of Houghton have been very clear in their concerns.

Community Officers

"Whilst we know from our experience that there is less crime around a police station, we have listened to the residents fear of crime.

"In response and in order to address their major concern the constabulary will provide guaranteed transport, at no cost, for detainees to the citadel area of the city centre.

"Additionally, two community officers who already cover the Houghton area will be based at the new facility when it opens.

"We believe we have now taken all reasonable steps to assuage the fears of Houghton residents that significant numbers of released prisoners will be walking back to the city. That simply will not be the case."

People living near the planned complex claimed released prisoners would put children and property at risk. They organised a petition in protest.

Carlisle City Council is due to consider the force's planning application on 20 October.