The new station would provide better accommodation facilities for police if it is approved.

The central location will improve public access and create a more visible police presence in the town, police bosses said.

The local area commander would relocate to the new building in spring 2007 along with other police staff.

'Too small'

The new Woodhouse Police Station will provide officers with improved facilities and working conditions in a two-storey building.

The nearest police stations in the area are located at Swan Lane and Great Central Road in Mansfield.

Ch Supt Ak Khan said: "Under the new Home Office-driven structure, which focuses on neighbourhood policing, more officers will be based in the heart of the communities they serve.

"The existing police station is ... too small with inadequate facilities for the required expansion."

Local area commander for Mansfield North, Insp Sam Wilson said: "It is an ambitious project that should provide better coverage and faster response times across Mansfield North."