One step closer to welcoming colleagues to our new Forensic Services Centre

The doors may not be open to colleagues just yet, but the new Forensic Services Centre in Bicester has taken a significant step closer to becoming operational. 

On Thursday 16th July, project partners, contractors and Thames Valley Police colleagues gathered to mark the Practical Completion of the building and its formal handover from Willmott Dixon to the force, a milestone that recognises the end of the construction phase and the beginning of the next chapter for the state-of-the-art facility. 

The occasion was hosted by our Head of Forensic Services, Kay Hannam, and our Deputy Chief Constable, Ben Snuggs, who reflected on the journey so far and thanked everyone involved in bringing the ambitious project to life. 

Following their remarks, representatives from Willmott Dixon formally handed over responsibility for the building to our force, marking the successful completion of the construction phase and bringing the force a step closer to welcoming forensic colleagues into the new facility. 

Once operational, the centre will provide a modern, purpose-built home for forensic services, supporting the vital work carried out by teams across Thames Valley Police and helping to meet future demands. 

Kay Hannam, Head of Forensic Services, said: 

“Reaching Practical Completion is a proud and exciting moment for everyone involved in this project. It has been fantastic to see the vision for the new Forensic Services Centre become a reality, and I would like to thank all those who have played a part in getting us to this stage. Most importantly, this milestone brings us one step closer to welcoming my team into a facility designed to support them in delivering outstanding forensic services for years to come.” 

Deputy Chief Constable Ben Snuggs said: 

“This is a significant milestone for Thames Valley Police and one that reflects the commitment, collaboration and expertise of everyone involved. The new centre represents an investment in our people and our future capabilities, strengthening our ability to fight crime and serve victims, while also valuing our people through the provision of a modern, purpose-built working environment. I look forward to seeing the building come to life as colleagues move in over the coming months.” 

Richard Poulter, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon Construction South, commented: 

“We are really pleased to be handing over this project for Thames Valley Police and want to thank everyone for their hard work along the way, which has resulted in the delivery of a stand-out facility that will help to shape the force’s forensic capability whilst enhancing wellbeing and collaboration for the discipline. 

“Working closely with TVP throughout this project has meant that we were able to deliver a new HQ that serves the needs of the force that will ultimately benefit both the department and the wider community.” 

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While there is still work to do before the building becomes fully operational, the handover marks a major achievement for the project and an important step towards bringing the facility into service. 

For more information on the new forensic services roles, visit our Forensics page.