THAMES Valley Police has ended a seven year search for a new Borough police HQ.
The current building in the centre of Reading has been in use since 1997 and no longer meets the needs of modern policing.
It will also be too expensive to repair so in 2012 a search for new premises was launched.
Now the Force has announced it has exchanged contracts on Atlantic House just off Imperial Way to the south of Reading town centre.
The modern three storey building with its own parking is located outside of the town centre but well within the Borough.
Anthony Stansfeld, Police and Crime Commissioner said: “I am pleased to have secured a new Area Headquarters in Reading.
“The search for a property that meets Thames Valley Police’s needs has been ongoing over
a number of years so it is good news to have exchanged contracts on Atlantic House.
“The move to a new location has become a necessity as the existing building is no longer fit for purpose and costly to maintain.
“It is also important to us and to the public that Thames Valley Police continues to have a visible presence in the centre of Reading which is accessible to members of the public and a base for neighbourhood policing.
“In addition to our new Area Headquarters, we will continue to look for a suitable town centre facility to meet these needs to ensure continuity of service.”
John Campbell, Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police said “Following completion of the sale, Atlantic House will require refurbishment and adaptation before Thames Valley Police take occupancy.
“Occupation of the building is expected to take place in early 2021.
“In addition to this building Thames Valley Police will be looking to secure a visible town centre facility to include a front counter, town centre facing neighbourhood base and office facilities, to support policing of the busy town centre.”
