Safety Through Strength Annual Report 2024-25 - Page 13

In December 2024, His Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary published its report following the inspection of Lancashire Constabulary earlier in the year – and the verdict is that Lancashire is one of the top performing forces in the country.

Lancashire’s approach to ‘preventing and deterring crime and anti-social behaviour, and reducing vulnerability’ has been graded as ‘outstanding’ in this year’s HMICFRS report, highlighting the force’s approach to improving communities and building confidence, as well as the professionalism and excellence of the staff working across these areas.

Whilst there is no overall grade given to forces, Lancashire has been judged to be ‘outstanding’ in one area, ‘good’ in five areas, ‘adequate’ in two and ‘requiring improvement’ in another. Some areas of inspection are not given a grade.

Lancashire Constabulary has made significant improvements across many areas since the last inspection in 2022 and the recognition of strong leadership, effective governance, and innovative practices is a testament to the dedication and hard work of all officers and staff.

Investing in technology

Over the past 12 months, Lancashire Police has made several significant technology investments to enhance its capabilities and improve service delivery.

In-Car Video Systems:
Lancashire Police has deployed Motorola Solutions’ M500 incar video system across its entire fleet of vehicles. This advanced video solution provides real-time awareness of the vehicle’s environment from multiple viewpoints, enhancing officer safety and operational effectiveness

Digital and Cyber Capabilities:
As part of a broader £300 million, 10year investment plan, Lancashire Police has focused on upgrading its digital and cyber capabilities. This includes the implementation of advanced technologies to combat cybercrime and improve digital investigations

ICT Infrastructure:
The force has continued to invest in its Information and Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure, ensuring that systems and applications are fit for purpose, secure, and capable of supporting modern policing needs. This includes enhancements to core IT infrastructure and the adoption of new technologies to streamline operations and improve service delivery

These investments are part of a strategic effort to modernise the force, improve efficiency, and ensure that Lancashire Police can effectively address the evolving challenges of contemporary policing.

Strategic Policing Requirement (SPR)

Throughout the past year, Lancashire Constabulary has made significant strides in fulfilling the Strategic Policing Requirement (SPR). This has involved a coordinated approach to tackling issues such as terrorism, serious and organised crime, cybercrime, public order, and child sexual abuse.

The Constabulary has implemented robust strategies and allocated resources to enhance capabilities in these areas, working closely with regional and national partners to ensure a unified response. Regular assessments and reviews have been conducted to monitor progress and adapt to emerging challenges, ensuring that the force remains agile and responsive.

The successful delivery of the SPR has reinforced public safety and confidence, demonstrating our commitment to addressing the most pressing policing challenges both locally and nationally.

Estates and Infrastructure New police station for Chorley

Plans for the new police station advanced with the granting of planning permission in March 2025. Contractors from the Eric Wright Group have commenced work on the site of the former Runshaw College on Euxton Lane. This new facility will replace the existing station on St Thomas’ Road in Chorley Town Centre upon completion. It will serve as a base for various policing services, including Neighbourhood Police and Immediate Response Teams.

I am pleased to see progress on this significant investment in our policing infrastructure, which will result in a modern, purpose-built police station that is accessible to the public. The project is expected to be completed by Spring 2026.

HQ Redevelopment – Critical Policing Infrastructure Programme (CPIP)

Plans continue to be drawn up for the ambitious redevelopment of Lancashire Constabulary’s headquarters, which aims to modernise the existing headquarters site at Saunders Lane and Lindle Lane in Hutton, South Ribble. This redevelopment is designed to support various critical police functions, including the dogs and mounted branch, specialist and technical training, fleet maintenance, cyber and crime teams, and contact management.

Planning permission for the redevelopment was granted in March 2025, marking a crucial milestone in the project. The redevelopment will replace outdated buildings, some of which are nearly 75 years old, with modern facilities that meet the needs of a contemporary police force.

The project is expected to be completed in multiple phases over the next 4-5 years, ultimately providing a state-of-the-art headquarters that will support the Constabulary’s operational requirements and future-proof its capabilities.

Progress on Pendle Police Station

Significant progress has been made on the development of the new Pendle Police Station in Nelson over the past twelve months. The completion of the steel structure and the ‘topping out’ ceremony, marking the installation of the roof, have been key milestones in the construction of this state-of-the-art facility. The new station is scheduled to open in Spring 2026 and will house response and neighbourhood policing teams, investigations, and more. It will also feature a front counter, ensuring continued service for Pendle residents.