Keynsham Custody Suite and Prosecution and Investigation Facility

Client
Galliford Try/Avon and Somerset Police
Value
£16m
Completion
2014

The challenge of Keynsham was twofold. Firstly, this facility formed one of three similar police buildings. Hence the challenge of how to meet multiple a complex briefs whilst working to a defined building form that fit into a the family of recognisable forms, which would not only reflect those parts of the buildings which had a similar function, but also presented a common identity to the public as a recognisable Avon and Somerset Police presence.

The second challenge was to create a building with a range of complex uses and accommodation requirements that fit within a rational design that also allowed for future flexibility of the layout.

This building holds 48 custody cells including 4 vulnerable cell with a central control bridge. The building also comprises; a Police and Criminal Evidence Interview and evidence capturing facilities; Video Identification Parade Electronic Recording suites; Crime Scene Investigation facilities; and Prosecution and Investigation facilities.

The first floor plan was designed on a fixed 7.5 metre grid which further split into 1250mm modules, allowing for maximum flexibility and re-planning possibilities of the floorplate in response to future client requirements. This rational layout allowed for very efficient and simple M&E distribution as the simplified structural grid allowed a regular grid of chilled beams to be set out, which provided not only thermal comfort but also integrated lighting and other electrical services. The curtain wall mullions and desking system were also designed to work along the same grid, setting up a very clean and simple office layout.

There were challenges in how to combine the rigorously secure elements required of the design whilst still providing office accommodation within the building which felt open, light and importantly, welcoming. Forming a plinth to the building with the custody suite elements, allows the stone linear ‘box’ with open glazed ends on the first floor, containing the various office based spaces to project out over the base.

The benefit to the client was the creation of a family of instantly recognisable buildings that are fully flexible with regards to future use but at the same time meet their stringent requirements. Working to achieve standardised elements across the designs for the three buildings resulted in not only projecting a strong brand identity for the police but also presents good value for the client, with respect to design and procurement. Furthermore, having standardisation between the buildings and having building that are flexible will ensure that the client can enjoy many years in the building that are easy to maintain and evolve over time.

Photography by ©Hufton+Crow