This in from the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner, in their own words. Ed
Plans were today (May 22) announced to deliver a new estates strategy that supports future policing needs. The new plan follows a review by the Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Hayes and includes:
- downsizing the current police HQ to a smaller HQ at Mottisfont Court in Winchester
- selling the Alpha Park site
- building two new Police Investigation Centres (PICs) in Basingstoke and Portsmouth to provide short term custodial care and support quicker processing of detainees
- building on successful partnerships with Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and local councils enabling officers and staff to work from alternative locations such as at libraries and fire stations
- progressing with a programme of engagement with local people, to discuss moving Safer Neighbourhoods Teams (SNTs) into the heart of the communities they serve.
Hayes: “Building the right foundations for the future”
Speaking on the six month anniversary of his appointment as Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire, Simon Hayes said:
“Today is about a new direction and building the right foundations for the future.
“That means getting rid of back office buildings that we don’t need and investing in new facilities and partnerships that will help us to make Hampshire and the Isle of Wight safer places.
“We will announce more when we have greater clarity on public finances and as the chief constable develops his operational plans but we now have certainty on the big decisions that will allow us to get rid of unnecessary buildings that cost the public money.”
Commenting on Mr Hayes’ decision, Hampshire Constabulary’s Chief Constable Andy Marsh said:
“Having the right buildings is key to a more effective and efficient police force – one that puts victims, witnesses and the community at the heart of policing.
“This will help to meet the needs of police officers and staff for generations to come, reducing long term costs and enabling us to build on the success that we have had in reducing crime in recent years.”
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Chief Officer, John Bonney said:
“I am delighted that Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and Hampshire Constabulary are working together in this way. It clearly demonstrates our commitment to work in partnership to make our communities safer and find ever more efficient ways to do so.”
Image: © Used with the kind permission of Eastleigh News
