Work has commenced on a new forensics centre for Thames Valley Police (TVP) with a groundbreaking event attended by the police and crime commissioner Matthew Barber.

Procured through SCF by Willmott Dixon, the purpose-built centre will become the main hub for the TVP’s forensic investigation unit, containing laboratories, new digital technologies and dedicated training facilities.

Also attending the event was TVP's deputy chief constable Ben Snuggs and head of forensic services, Kay Hannam, who joined Matthew Barber in digging the first section of ground at the site near Avonbury Business Park in Bicester with the Willmott Dixon team and the centre’s designers Atkins.

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It is part of the force's wider forensic improvement programme, which will see significant investment over the next three years to transform 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."

Work will be complete in winter 2024/25.