Newtown police base near Birmingham city centre has been officially reopened following refurbishment.
Officers were temporarily moved to other nearby locations while the work was completed.
It is the first time in decades that the building has been upgraded making it more suitable for policing in the 21st century and more economical to run by increasing the amount of usable space and introducing more environmentally friendly features such as electric vehicle charging points and LED lighting.
Updating offices means West Midlands Police are able to fit more people in the building, while improved staff rooms, a new quiet room and ablution facilities for faith-based washing rituals, put a focus on the wellbeing of officers who routinely manage traumatic incidents.
Security at the Summer Lane site has also been improved with new CCTV and other features.
As part of the official reopening, Chief Constable Craig Guildford and Police & Crime Commissioner Simon Foster toured the updated facilities and met the Neighbourhood and Response teams based there.
Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said: “I’m pleased to be alongside the Chief Constable here in Newtown as we officially unveil the new facilities and upgrades that have been made to the local police base.
“It’s vitally important that we continue to invest in local policing as it’s these teams and officers that dedicate themselves to providing an accessible, re-assuring and visible presence, preventing and tackling crime and to keeping people, families, businesses and local communities safe and secure.”
Speaking about the changes, Chief Constable Guildford, added: “The refurbishment demonstrates both mine and the Commissioner’s commitment to keep policing teams in the heart of the communities they serve – local cops and PCSOs serving local people.
“The work we have carried out – with a strong focus on offering good value for money – ensures the future of the site for years to come and the good facilities our hard-working officers and staff deserve.”
The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner owns West Midlands Police buildings while the Chief Constable decides how the force use them.
You can find out more about our buildings and our plans for them at: Premises & Land – West Midlands Police & Crime Commissioner (westmidlands-pcc.gov.uk)
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