POLICE authority members are being asked to approve extra funding for a police station refurbishment.

At a meeting of Cleveland Police Authority in December 1998, it was agreed to set a limit of £30,000 for building work on the custody area at Redcar police station.

It was considered that the area did not meet human rights and welfare requirements, and posed a risk to police staff. Now it is considered that the necessary improvements will cost £60,000.

At today's meeting of the police authority, members will be asked to release the extra money.

In a report, Chief Constable Barry Shaw says: "The refurbishment will create an additional detention room, an improved environment within both interview rooms and charge desk area, a medical examination room and a prisoner meal and preparation area."

The refurbishment will dramatically improve prisoner flow, staff working conditions and consequently morale, Mr Shaw tells members.