New Dorset Police HQ approved despite fears it could cause bird deaths

The force has not said how much the modernistic three storey building is likely to cost – but says that it will save money in the long run.

• READ MORE: Shiny new police headquarters could be 'lethal' to birds

“Overall the proposals will provide a high quality, efficient, headquarters building for Dorset Police to replace a building which is no longer fit for use. The new building will provide space that is both flexible and suitable for modern day policing requirements. The proposals will have little to no impact on the surrounding area and will improve the setting of the main entrance for all visitors and staff,” said a statement.

Proposed site layout - Corstorphine & Wright

The approval comes despite fears from Wool parish that its shiny surfaces could lead to bird deaths as they attempt to fly though the surface into the landscape they see in the reflection.

The council says that there are colonies of house martins and swifts living nearby which could be at particular risk.

A Dorset Council report says that the architect’s impressions “show the building more reflective than is actually expected. The glazing proposed will be much like the glazing of a standard window and would not be mirrored.”

Referring to a plant room on the top of the building the council says the dark grey aluminium proposed will be subject to a materials condition in the consent “to provide a non-reflective finish.”

Overall the council report concludes that although the new HQ will be a contrast to others on the site: “The building is considered an appropriate response taking into consideration the context of existing buildings on the site and its importance as a county HQ.”

The new HQ will replace the ageing A10 building, close to the entrance of the site with a triangular, three storey modern building with central stair wells and a café close to the entrance.

It will only provide a small amount of additional space, compared to the existing office complex, but the police say it will be more functional. All other buildings on the site remain as they are.

The planning application to Dorset Council says the existing office block is no longer fit for purpose and has maintenance problems: “Internally the space is dated and does not provide a healthy, high quality work environment which encourages communication and collaboration... As well as providing sufficient office space and meeting rooms, an important part of the brief is to provide breakout space, a cafe space and also space for staff to decompress,” said a document with the application.

The proposals also show additional security measures, including fencing and new bollards, and the retention of the memorial garden to the rear of the building although the war memorial will be relocated to the front of the new building. The roof will be fitted with solar panels.