A former insurance call centre in the Black Country has been given a new lease of life as a modern police station, marking a significant investment in local policing for the Dudley borough.
From Call Centre to Crime-Fighting Hub
West Midlands Police has officially opened its newest station on Castlegate Way in Dudley, following an extensive eight-month conversion project. The site, which once housed insurance staff, is now a fully functioning and secure base for the force, replacing the former headquarters at Brierley Hill police station.
The new facility now houses a wide range of police units, including neighbourhood teams, emergency response officers, offender managers, and intelligence teams. This consolidation makes it the central police headquarters for the entire borough.
Enhanced Facilities for Public and Officers
Significant improvements have been made to the building's safety and security systems. Key new features for the public include a dedicated victim care suite, multiple interview rooms, and a public contact office where residents can speak with staff face-to-face.
All public services previously offered at Brierley Hill have now been transferred to the new Dudley station. Officers and staff began a phased move into the new building, starting work from there on Monday, November 17.
Leadership Hails 'Vital Hub' for Generations
Chief Constable Craig Guildford expressed his pride in the new station during a visit. "I’m really pleased with the new Dudley police station," he said. "The facilities for our officers and staff are excellent, but more importantly, the facilities for victims and witnesses are excellent. Every penny spent on the project has been invested wisely to ensure the building serves the borough for generations."
Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster also welcomed the development, stating it fulfilled a key pledge. "This is part of my plan to rebuild community policing," he said. "This new facility will be fit for 21st century policing and will serve as a vital hub for police officers and staff... It will ensure the police have the resources they need to prevent and tackle crime."
The old Brierley Hill police station is scheduled to be disposed of this winter. Remaining officers based there will relocate to new offices at Dudley Council’s Cable Plaza building on Waterfront, completing the strategic reshuffle of police resources in the area.
