The purpose-built centre will become the main forensics hub for the force, containing laboratories, new digital technologies and dedicated training facilities.  

Construction of the forensics centre is expected to begin this summer and be completed in winter 2024/25, with Atkins also on the team as the appointed multi-disciplinary design consultants.

Cherwell District Council’s planning committee recently granted planning permission for the new forensic centre on force-owned land near Avonbury Business Park on Howes Lane, subject to the completion of a Section 106 agreement.

This is the latest project for Willmott Dixon in the emergency services sector. Others include creating a new headquarters for Merseyside Police, a learning centre for South Wales Police, a new headquarters for Dorset Police and working with West Yorkshire Police to deliver a new headquarters for the Kirklees district.