Thames Valley Police could be reimagining the way it carries out its technical operations after a proposal to build a new technical services building was granted planning permission.
Published: Friday, 10th February 2023
On Thursday 9 February a meeting of Cherwell District Council’s planning committee granted permission for plans to construct a new structure that will consist of a flat-roofed three storey building attached via canopy to a two storey plant building.
The state-of-the-art building would be built on the southwest Avonbury Business Park in Howes Lane, Bicester and would provide a new hub to bring together essential operational services for Thames Valley Police.
Councillor Colin Clarke, Lead Member for Planning, said: “Bicester has a long standing reputation of looking to the future and focusing on being more eco-friendly. The addition of the Thames Valley Police technical services building will be in keeping with this ethos with plans to utilise solar panels for energy and design features to work towards achieving a true zero carbon status.”
The proposed building design of glazing and metal panelling will bring a modern aesthetic which will incorporate large open spaces and landscaping into 40 per cent of the site. The development has been designed to meet a BREEAM excellent rating.
The application also covers a 120 space car park, electric vehicle charging facilities and a shelter bicycle rack.
The applicant says the technical services building could open as early as 2024. It will create a flagship building that will allow for better joined up working that reflects modern policing practices and provide at least 60 new employment opportunities for the area.