New State-of-the-Art Police Custody Suite Opens at High Wycombe

Under a framework agreement with Thames Valley Police, Beard has just completed a 40 week project at High Wycombe Police Station to provide officers and staff with modern, state-of-the-art, custody facilities and a safer detention environment for detainees.

Valued at £1.3m, the project is part of the Thames Valley Police Custody Estates Refurbishment Programme (CERP).  Beard undertook the extension and complete renovation of the existing building, making internal changes to optimise available space and improve the operational environment for staff, in line with the latest Home Office guidelines.  

The building, which comprises 12 custody cells, reception and interview rooms, together with improved kitchen and staff rest areas, was completely stripped back and refitted with new floors, ceilings and cell doors.

As a Design and Build contract Beard was responsible for the implementation of all aspects of the project including the sophisticated mechanical and electrical fit out.  This incorporates the latest computer monitored electronic locking system from Chubb, which in turn is linked to temperature controls to improve energy efficiency. Other features include state-of-the-art CCTV, wall mounted metal detectors, movement sensors and call strips - used to alert the attention of custody staff.

“The way we work with Beard is an effective working partnership, in co-operation with Thames Valley Police Property Services team”, said Judy Blake, Project Officer, Property Services, Thames Valley Police. “Custody is a very specialised area and Beard’s in-depth understanding of our needs and drive for continuous improvement in terms of materials, construction methods and sub-contractors used, has supported us in the delivery of a state-of-the-art custody environment for High Wycombe”.

High Wycombe is the sixth project that Beard has completed under the Thames Valley Police Framework Agreement.