Investigative Hub FAQs

The new Investigative Hub, which is due to open in the coming weeks, will enhance the investigative and operational capabilities of Durham Constabulary replacing the force’s ageing custody facilities and providing a new home for an array of investigative and forensic capabilities. These capabilities will improve evidence gathering and secure more convictions for victims of crime.

The opening of this facility may pose questions from our residents across County Durham and Darlington which we would like to respond to appropriately.

 

How will the force access the new building? 

The site is accessed from Meadowfield Avenue, the primary access route being off the A167 Coach and Horses roundabout via York Hill Road.

The full address is: 

 

Durham Constabulary

Investigative Hub

Meadowfield Avenue

Spennymoor

County Durham

DL16 6YJ

 

Will I notice an in increase in noise from police vehicles?

The centre is not an operational police station and as such officers will not be responding to emergencies from there. In exceptional circumstances it may be necessary for officers to use sirens and blue lights but we expect this to be very rare.

 

Will there be increased traffic noise in my area? 

A planning application requires a transport assessment that will analyse traffic flow arising from the development and any approval granted will take this into account. Our current detainee transport provider, GeoAmey are already based at DurhamGate North and therefore there will be no change in existing traffic movement relating to the transporting of detainees.

 

Will detainees be released onto the street?

Vulnerable detainees (including all juveniles) will be escorted home. This could be done by their parents, professional agencies, or, in some cases, police officers.

For adult detainees, custody sergeants and detention staff work hard to ensure they can get home safely. Most are picked up by family, friends, or a taxi. If this isn’t possible, detainees will be given a bus ticket, as the site is close to two bus stops, allowing them to travel home by public transport.

Some detainees will be taken directly to court or transported straight to prison. This is usually handled by our detainee transport provider.

 

Further questions?

If you have any further questions, please contact [email protected] or call 0191 375 2001.

You can also find out more by reviewing our Public Accountability meeting at https://youtu.be/WEd_VEbyWT4