Police custody suite refurbished 'for the 21st century'

The cell doors before the refurbishment

Wiltshire Police’s Melksham custody suite has reopened after undergoing major refurbishment work to make it "fit for the 21st century".

For more than a year people arrested anywhere in Wiltshire have been taken to Swindon for processing and holding.

Police and Crime Commissioner Phillip Wilkinson approved an investment of £3.7m last year for work which included refreshed cells and higher security observation doors for detainee and staff safety.

Mr Wilkinson said: "Wiltshire Police now has a custody suite which is fit for the 21st century, that meets Home Office compliance advice as well as His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) inspection criteria."

'Fit-for-purpose'

There are now cells with Qibla pointers for Muslim detainees, autism friendly colour schemes, an improved air lock and secure alarm system and a refresh of the custody desk with wider and taller screens which enables privacy and soundproofing.

Mr Wilkinson added: “As with any building works, challenges arose which meant the building remained closed for longer than originally anticipated.

"We were able to use this opportunity to bring forward additional planned refurbishment options into this phase removing the need for further closures."

The custody suite first closed in February last year, since then Wiltshire Police has processed all detainees at Gablecross Custody in Swindon.

Wiltshire chief constable Catherine Roper said: "The importance of a fit-for-purpose custody facility, which supports the safety and welfare of our detainees, officers and staff, cannot be underestimated."