Mr Justice Paul Maguire ruled that proceedings could go ahead, but refused to put a halt on the closure of the cells in Bangor police station until the case concluded.

The Association’s chairperson, Clive Fullerton, told the Belfast Telegraph that the Association would seek an order to re-open the custody suite if their challenge is successful.

Mr Fullerton added: “We are there on a daily basis, looking after the interests of people who are arrested.

“Vulnerable adults and children will now be taken to very large facilities at Musgrave Street in Belfast.

“There are concerns for community safety and the response times of police officers.”