Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw has visited Skelmersdale police station - west Lancashire DHQ - to see how work on a major refurbishment is starting to take shape.

During his visit, he met contractors from Conlon Construction, appointed by Lancashire Constabulary to lead on the project and was given a tour of the work so far.

Mr Grunshaw’s 'Social Value Policy' was introduced to ensure that all procurement and commissioning activity maximises social, economic and environmental benefit while also delivering value for money.

Speaking on site, he said: “This is a great example of how investing in our county is an important part of the commissioning process for myself and Lancashire Constabulary and is exactly what my ‘Backing Lancashire’ campaign is all about.

“That this work is being done is also positive for Skelmersdale and the wider community, with investment necessary to ensure that the station is fully fit for purpose going forward.

“Creating safe and confident communities is one of the priorities in my Police and Crime Plan and investing responsibly is a key part of that and something that, by encouraging other organisations to join us in Backing Lancashire, I will be building on, providing opportunities for local people.”

Head of estates, fleet and facilities management for the force, Crissie Marshall, added: “The procurement process was extremely tough. Not only did Conlon Construction demonstrate it provides the best overall value for money, but that it could develop and implement the designs, alongside meeting our social value policies. Our 'Social Value Policy' ensures that all resources are used wisely, that we protect and enhance the environment, whilst ensuring the efficient use of resources and delivery of value for money.”

Michael Conlon, chairman of Conlon Construction, said: “Lancashire Constabulary is a prestigious client to be working with again after so many years and we’re focused on creating a scheme that ensures local police have the right working environment to provide a first-class service to the public.

“Once complete, the refurbished station will deliver huge benefits to the local community, both in terms of the physical building and also around social value. We are making use of the local supply chain, while providing employment and training, to ensure we deliver a lasting legacy beyond the build.”

Currently, the building is scaffolded on all sides and covered with debris netting while concrete treatment works are carried out. Installation of the new elevation treatment will then commence. Internally, new partitions and mechanical and electrical infrastructure is being installed to create efficient collaborative spaces which reflect current and future policing requirements.

The station is due to reopen in about a year's time.