A police training headquarters is set to undergo a £1.4million programme of refurbishment.
Victoria House in Netley is in line for a phased series of work to keep the site operational after funding was signed off by Hampshire and Isle of Wight police and crime commissioner Donna Jones.
The Grade II listed building in Royal Victoria Country Park has been part of the force’s training headquarters since the 1980s.
Ms Jones approved awarding a contract to HP Concracts for the full redecoration of the building and essential maintenance works.
This involves updating the fire alarm system, which suffers regular false alarms out of hours ,and improvements to fire protection measures.
There will also be significant ceiling replacements, redecoration of walls and lighting changes, including the wholescale upgrade of the emergency lighting system.
Frequently used spaces such as the lecture theatre will benefit from new auditorium seating and the Duke Room will be refurbished to create a modern social space.
A formal record of the commissioner’s decision said the total project budget is £1,440,878.
The project represents the first significant investment in the building in 40 years, with the aim of improving the working environment for officers and police staff.
An application for listed building consent to carry out the work is currently being considered by Eastleigh Borough Council planning officers.
A heritage, design and access statement prepared by AtkinsRéalis PPS Limited on behalf of the OPCC said: “The proposed internal refurbishment and fire safety works have been developed with careful consideration for the heritage significance of Victoria House.
“The design approach ensures that all interventions respect and preserve the building’s historic character while delivering essential improvements to safety, functionality, and accessibility.”
The statement said Victoria House was built by the Royal Engineers in 1866 as part of the Royal Victoria Military Hospital complex, originally serving as a psychiatric hospital.
Hampshire County Council purchased the grounds and associated land in 1979 following the hospital’s closure.
This led to the creation of the Royal Victoria Country Park the following year.
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