County L'Derry-headquartered Henry Brothers Construction has commenced a £9 million refurbishment of Wolverhampton Central Police Station.

The 16-month project will modernise the 33-year-old building on Bilston Street while keeping the station fully operational throughout the works.

The upgrade will deliver improved victim care facilities, a more efficient and comfortable workplace for officers and staff, and ensure the long-term future of the landmark city centre site.

Managing Director of Henry Brothers Construction, Ian Taylor, said: "We are very pleased to be starting work on this scheme to refurbish Wolverhampton Central police station, as we take great pride in working alongside our bluelight clients. The creation of a more modern police station will provide improved facilities for West Midlands Police and allow officers to better service the local community."

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As part of its commitment to local investment, Henry Brothers will employ local workers, including apprentices, throughout the scheme.

The refurbishment will include the replacement of windows, installation of new heating and cooling systems, repairs to leaks and damp, improved insulation, and the addition of solar panels and LED lighting to boost energy efficiency. Safety and security systems will be upgraded, and a new on-site café, run by a local non-profit organisation, will provide training and employment opportunities for people facing barriers to work.

West Midlands Police Chief Constable, Craig Guildford, added: "These essential works represent a major investment in policing in Wolverhampton and this iconic building. Every penny will be spent wisely, with local businesses and local people benefitting from this injection of cash into the local economy."

Cash for the £9 million critical works has come from making better use of West Midlands Police's estate, reducing energy consumption and other cost savings that have made the service more efficient and more effective, such as the introduction of robotics to automate administrative processes and artificial intelligence to answer all non-emergency calls.

Money for the works can only be spent on buildings and equipment, and not officers.