Comox Valley elected officials are continuing efforts to replace the region’s aging RCMP detachment, touring a newly built facility in North Cowichan earlier this month.

Last week, mayors, senior staff and RCMP leadership visited the North Cowichan detachment, completed in 2024.

The tour was part of ongoing work by Comox Valley municipalities to advance plans for a new RCMP building locally.

The current detachment on Ryan Road is more than 40 years old and has been the subject of discussion for over a decade.

The City of Courtenay, Town of Comox and Village of Cumberland plan to send letters of support to provincial and federal governments urging progress toward a new detachment.

Cumberland Mayor Vickey Brown says touring both the North Cowichan and Comox Valley facilities made the urgency of moving the replacement process forward clear.

Courtenay Mayor Bob Wells says the current RCMP building is well past its prime and municipalities have requested another meeting with RCMP “E” Division leadership to advocate for improvements while work toward a replacement continues.

Comox Mayor Nicole Minions says a new building will be needed to serve the next 40 years, accommodate population growth and support responses to emergencies.

Minions adds the project has been identified as a priority over the past three years and municipalities will work with provincial and federal partners to advance it.

The existing detachment faces significant issues, including the risk of structural failure during a major seismic event that could disrupt police communications across North Vancouver Island.

Health and safety concerns include lead in water pipes, asbestos in building materials, unreliable heating and ventilation systems and space shortages.

Nearly 200 police personnel are working in about 1,700 square metres.

Inspector Scott Mercer says letters of support from municipalities will help move the project forward and support discussions with provincial and federal partners on a long-term solution.

In the coming months, local governments and RCMP leadership will continue reviewing options and funding models as they work toward a new facility for the Comox Valley.

To learn more, visit City of Courtenay.