Thames Valley Police has marked the start of work on the new forensics centre in Bicester with a ground-breaking ceremony.

Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Barber, deputy chief constable Ben Snuggs and head of forensic services, Kay Hannam, dug the first bit of ground at the site of the state-of-the-art building near Avonbury Business Park on Howes Lane, with representatives from constructors Willmott Dixon and designers Atkins on Thursday, August 10.

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The purpose-built centre will become the Forensic Investigation Unit’s main hub, containing laboratories, new digital technologies and dedicated training facilities.

It is part of the wider Forensic Improvement Programme, which will see significant investment over the next three years to transform the force’s forensic services, improving investigations and the outcomes for victims.

Mr 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.

"Whether the crime is burglary, sexual offences or other serious violence, it is vital we work to stay one step ahead of the criminals.

"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 officially starts at the site on force-owned land on August 29, and is expected to be completed in winter 2024/25.

During the first few months, workers will be focusing on site setup and groundwork.

This will involve installing a temporary car park, deliveries lay-by, below ground drainage, pouring foundations, and constructing the new building slab.

Additionally, they will be carrying out a drainage diversion that serves the existing police base. In terms of works out the ground, the concrete frame will commence in November.

Deputy chief constable Snuggs said: “I am really excited that we are able to mark the beginning of the building work on our new forensics building.

“When complete, this facility will provide a state-of-the-art space for our Forensic Investigation teams and improve our service delivery to the public.

“It will also enable Thames Valley Police to enhance its forensic provision with a variety of crime scene investigation and digital roles, as well providing bespoke on-site training facilities for staff and students.

“Forensic evidence plays a critical part in the investigation of both serious and volume crime.

"This milestone takes us a step closer to improving our ability to fight crime, bring offenders to justice and serve victims, thus making sure TVP is an excellent police force trusted by all our communities.”

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1