The UK's Thames Valley Police and its police and crime commissioner Matthew Barber have broken ground on the construction of a new forensics centre.
This purpose-built facility will serve as the main centre for the police's Forensic Investigation Unit, comprising laboratories with the latest digital technology and specialised training facilities.
The project is part of the Forensic Improvement Programme, which will spend high amounts over the next three years to modernise the forensic capabilities of the force, enhancing investigations in the process.
Barber said: “I was delighted to put the first spade in the ground marking the start of construction on our new purpose-built forensics centre.
“This is an exciting new chapter for Thames Valley Police. Ensuring the police are on the cutting edge of forensics is critical to keeping the public safe.
“This significant investment in our estate will transform our forensics service providing state-of-the-art support for operational policing and delivering improved outcomes for victims. It will also futureproof our forensics capability and capacity helping us to meet existing and future demand.”
Construction commences on a police-owned property near Avonbury Business Park on Howes Lane on 29 August and is expected to be finished in late 2024/25.
Workers will focus on foundation laying for the first few months. This will entail building a temporary car park, laying out deliveries, installing an underground drainage system, pouring foundations, and building the new slab.
In addition, a drainage diversion will be constructed that will serve the current police station. In terms of groundwork, the concrete frame will be erected in November.
Forensic Services head Kay Hannam said: “This new forensic centre will create the right environment for our multidisciplined forensic teams to better collaborate and deliver excellent forensic science across the Thames Valley.
“It will act as a catalyst for growth, providing opportunities to recruit and retain our talent, increasing the size of our teams and harnessing new technology to meet the increasing demands and complexity of crime investigation.”
