It is the second project in a year for the force following the refurbishment of its Sabrina Centre in 2020.

The latest project involves redeveloping the existing operations base at Bamfurlong, located between Gloucester and Cheltenham at the end of the Golden Valley bypass.

Work will include the delivery of a new operational hub building, along with kennels, stable and equine block. It will be the first time that Gloucestershire Constabulary will have all their operational units in one place.

Willmott Dixon has worked closely with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner to develop the site and identified over £10m worth of savings, including over £6m through the refurbishment of an existing vehicle workshop.

Neal Stephens, managing director for Willmott Dixon’s Wales and West region said: ‘‘It is great to be working again with Gloucestershire Constabulary. This is yet another exciting project that will transform its operations by providing a fit-for-purpose, modern environment for officers and staff.

“Our team developed a close working relationship during our time on the Sabrina Centre which has enabled us to quickly help the Force to develop this scheme and start on site.’’

Gloucestershire Police and Crime Commissioner Martin Surl said: “This redevelopment will not only improve the service the Constabulary is able to provide to the public and enhance the wellbeing of officers and staff, but will also meet our commitment to ‘a green and pleasant county’ by using a brownfield site and reducing environmental impact.

“In short, Bamfurlong will be an enhanced asset for the Constabulary and OPCC for generations to come and we are delighted the work can now begin.”