The Durham Regional Police Service is forging ahead with plans to establish a dedicated police station and division in Ajax, a move prompted by anticipated population growth in the region. This announcement was made on Tuesday afternoon, where officials unveiled the proposed location for the new facility. If the Region of Durham council approves the necessary funding in 2026, the new station will be situated on Harwood Avenue North, positioned between Rossland Road East and Taunton Road West.
Currently, police officers who patrol Ajax operate out of the DRPS station located in Pickering. This situation has been challenging, especially considering Ajax's increasing density, which necessitates a more robust police presence and operational capacity in the area. Durham Regional Police Chief Peter Moreira emphasized the pressing need for a standalone station in Ajax, stating, "Ajax hasn’t had a standalone station for decades." He highlighted that a significant portion of the Pickering station's police activity—52 percent—occurs in Ajax, underlining the importance of establishing a local presence to bolster law enforcement services.
Moreover, Chief Moreira pointed out that the current Pickering station is located in a floodplain, which limits its expansion capabilities. The geographical constraints not only hinder the growth of the facility but also necessitate additional space to support operations in Pickering. Moving personnel to the newly proposed Ajax station would alleviate some pressure and free up resources at the Pickering site, allowing for improved service delivery in both locations.
The projected timeline for the completion of the new Ajax station is set for 2031, contingent on receiving approvals and funding. The estimated budget for this significant undertaking is approximately $88 million. In addition to serving as a police station, the new division is expected to host essential units, including a community response unit, criminal investigations team, and personnel dedicated to community engagement.
This strategic initiative acknowledges the growing complexities associated with policing in Ajax and aims to enhance community safety and responsiveness. The establishment of a dedicated division will not only improve local law enforcement's operational effectiveness but also foster stronger collaboration between the police and the community they serve. As Ajax continues to expand, so too does the need for adequate policing infrastructure, and this new station represents an essential step toward meeting those evolving demands.
