Work begins on £55m Herts police HQ in Welwyn Garden City

The ceremony marks the beginning of the construction phase for the state-of-the-art building, which will provide a brand-new working environment for more than 600 operational staff

The demolition of four buildings at the Stanborough Road site began in February this year, with the new HQ set to be completed by September 2026.

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

Chief Constable Charlie Hall, Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire Jonathan Ash-Edwards, and Wilmott Dixon's Stewart Brundell break the ground at the site. (Image: Herts police)

"I'm delighted that we've now got to this point," said Chief Constable Hall.

"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."

PCC Ash-Edwards added: "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.

An artist impression of what the new HQ could look like. (Image: Herts police)

"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 is looking forward to getting started, continuing: "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."