Custody suite at Strand Road PSNi station to be replaced by new suite in Waterside
POLICE chiefs are to open a new custody suite in Derry.
In a s statement, the PSNI said: “Work on a new, purpose-built £11 million facility with 21 cells on the existing Waterside site Derry is planned to begin in 2017.
“It will replace the custody provision in Strand Road, which will close on completion of this new custody suite in 2019.”
ACC Stephen Martin said: “Keeping People Safe while they are detained is a priority and these changes will enable the police service to provide a smaller number of more enhanced custody suites.
“Over 27,000 people are detained in our cells annually therefore it is essential the facilities remain fit for purpose.
“Many of our detainees’ needs are increasingly complex reflecting higher levels of addictions, mental health concerns, incidences of self-harm and suicidal ideation.
“In partnership with the Public Health Agency, a Health Needs Assessment has recently been undertaken and is currently being finalised.
“This will inform PSNI’s approach to enhancing the current custody healthcare service.
“As recommended in the ‘Improving Healthcare in Criminal Justice Strategy’ we will actively work in collaboration with key partners, particularly in Justice and Health, to ensure we all meet the healthcare needs of people detained by the police.
“Our ambition is to create a more effective and efficient custody service consisting of a fewer number of better-equipped suites, each of which will see the introduction of embedded healthcare and support services to help Keep People Safe.”
There are no immediate staff reductions as a result of the changes and affected custody personnel will be re-deployed to alternative locations in consultation with the contract provider Noonan.
ACC Martin added: “By 2019, the four custody closures announced today will save approximately £1 million in estate maintenance works that would otherwise have been required.”
The PSNI’s Custody Reform Programme started in 2014 when there were 19 suites.
There will be between 9 and 10 suites open at any point in time.
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