A freedom of information response reveals that the maintenance backlog costs for the police estate across the country now stands at a whopping £231,605,506.

The problem is particularly acute in the south of Scotland, which accounts for 30 per cent of the backlog.

Shadow community safety minister Sharon Dowey blamed years of relentless SNP cuts and underfunding, which she said have forced overwhelmed officers to work in buildings that aren’t fit for purpose.

Scottish Conservative shadow minister for community safety Sharon Dowey said: “The SNP’s sustained neglect of frontline policing has resulted in this truly staggering maintenance backlog.

“It’s appalling that already overwhelmed Police Scotland officers are being forced to work in crumbling conditions. This is unsafe and can’t be allowed to continue.

“This is a Scotland-wide problem, but the neglect seems particularly acute in the south of the country. This is not just affecting staff morale – it can impact the ability of officers to safely police their community.

“These conditions are unsustainable, unfair and, coupled with dangerously low officer numbers, highlight SNP ministers’ contempt for our dedicated police force.

“Instead of continually undermining community safety, the Nationalists must provide Police Scotland with the resources needed to keep the public safe.”