Guildhall police base moves closer

2:22pm Saturday 17th May 2008

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POLICE are one step closer to having an office in Worcester's Guildhall after a committee granted listed building consent for their plans.

As previously reported in your Worcester News, West Mercia Police has been in talks with Worcester City Council to rent office space in the city's Guildhall.

A planning application for listed building consent to modify the south wing of the building for the police, has been granted by the city council's planning committee.

Once approved by the Secretary of State, building work can start on the 18th century building.

Conservative Councillor Barry Mackenzie-Williams said: "I believe the best way to conserve a listed building is to give them a new lease of life.

"This is an opportunity for another public service use which will go some way towards producing income for the council."

The work will isolate the rear of the south wing by blocking off a connecting doorway.

Police officers will have access to the building through a key pad entry system and an independent intruder alarm will be fitted.

The plans also include modernising the heating system and data cabling.

At the request of the police, a toilet and wash basin on the first floor will be converted into a kitchenette.

The city council also states a car parking space will be included with the lease, which will mean re-locating the Mayor's and deputy Mayor's spaces.

The office space, spread over two floors, has been left empty by several council departments moving out of the historic building to Orchard House.

In December, your Worcester News exclusively revealed the office would be used by about 12 police officers. They would have access to computer systems and be able to make a cup of tea without having to make the 10-minute walk back to Worcester police station in Castle Street.

It will not be a police station for public use.