Durham Constabulary investigative hub reaches key construction milestone

A major milestone has been reached in the construction of a new Durham Constabulary investigative hub with the commencement of the steel frame.

When completed in spring next year, the hub at DurhamGate will provide more than 6,600 m2 of up-to-date accommodation, including office space, 48 modern cells, interview rooms, Crime Scene Investigation provision, evidence stores, virtual courts, CCTV, an energy centre, medical facilities, and forensic examination rooms.

Tilbury Douglas Construction is the principal construction contractor on the two-storey state-of-the-art project. It is designed to provide a sustainable and flexible building, which will replace the current ageing custody estate.

DurhamGate, a landmark mixed-use community, is located five miles south of Durham City. It currently consists of more than 300 homes alongside community amenities and businesses including the Fox Cub pub and restaurant, a headquarters for housing provider LIVIN, national training provider Learning Curve and Breedon Group.

Mark Gardham, regional director North East at Tilbury Douglas said: “We are delighted to be delivering the fantastic new Investigative Hub and it’s great to see the progress that’s been made on site so far. Our focus is to deliver a first-class, new facility, befitting of one of the UK’s top performing police forces. “

“As a local North East contractor, our focus is also to maximise social value from the build, including the creation of new sustainable jobs, work placement and apprentice opportunities, that all provide long-term benefits for the local community.”

Ciaron Irvine, deputy chief constable of Durham, said: “We are really pleased to see the construction is making good progress and the new building is starting to take shape.

“Once it is operational, the Durham Investigative Hub will allow for the safe detention of prisoners and provide a safer, more modern working environment for our officers and staff. Most importantly, it will transform our ability to catch criminals, prevent crime and keep our communities safe.”

Nigel Bryson, deputy PCC, County Durham and Darlington, commented: “This project represents the largest investment ever undertaken by the Constabulary and we are delighted local firms – and the economy – are already reaping the benefits.”

Dean Cook, managing director of Arlington Real Estate, which is behind the DurhamGate regeneration project, added: “The addition of this state-of-the-art Durham Constabulary investigative hub further heightens the mixed-used community ethos behind the creation and design of DurhamGate.”