Groundbreaking ceremony marks important stage in redevelopment of Hertfordshire Constabulary Headquarters

A groundbreaking ceremony for Hertfordshire Constabulary’s new police headquarters (HQ) was recently held, marking an important stage in the redevelopment.

The ceremony marks the beginning of the construction phase that will result in a state-of-the-art building which will provide a brand-new working environment for more than 600 operational staff. The 9,000 square metre HQ will reduce the current estate’s long-term running costs as well as provide a home for services and departments based at the site.

Chief Constable Charlie Hall, Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire Jonathan Ash-Edwards and Stewart Brundell, Managing Director of the main contractor, Willmott Dixon, put spades in the ground during the event.

They were joined by representatives from the constabulary as well as partners in the project, Willmott Dixon, AECOM, Vincent-Gorbing, Conisbee and Pick Everard.

Planning permission was granted in July 2022, and demolition of four buildings began in February 2024.  The redevelopment, which is due to be complete in September 2026, will provide a modern four-storey building that replaces the old inefficient buildings which will achieve a BREEAM Excellent for ultra-high sustainability standards.  It also responds to new policing working methods by providing agile space that addresses staff wellbeing and working needs, and is targeting WELL Platinum Certification, a major benchmark for advancing health and wellbeing within a single building.

Chief Constable Charlie Hall said: “I'm delighted that we've now got to this point. The redevelopment has been a number of years in the making and so to now be breaking the ground is a fantastic point to have reached and a big milestone for the constabulary.

“Whilst we may still be two years away from the finalised building, there's real tangible excitement in the constabulary because we're finally going to get truly fit for purpose facilities that will serve the constabulary for the next 60 years.”

Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire Jonathan Ash-Edwards said: “The redevelopment of police headquarters is an important and major project to provide fit for purpose facilities for police officers and staff delivering critical operational police services to the public. The decision was taken by my predecessor following full scrutiny of the various options, which concluded that redevelopment of the site was the cheapest option. I will be maintaining close oversight of the project as it comes to fruition.”

Stewart Brundell, Managing Director of Willmott Dixon, said: “"We are extremely pleased to commence construction on the new state-of-the-art, sustainable facility which will provide an exceptional working environment for the constabulary, enhancing their ability to serve the community effectively. We also look forward to delivering a number of social value initiatives in collaboration with Hertfordshire Constabulary, reinforcing our dedication to supporting the local community."

Photos of the ceremony

An artist impression of the new headquarters