New divisional HQ handed over to GMP

THE new North Manchester Divisional Police Headquarters at the Central Park scheme in Newton Heath has been handed over to the Greater Manchester Police Authority (GMPA).

Phased occupation of the 125,000 sq ft building, which has been developed by Ask:Goodman, has now begun. It is based on a 5.3-acre plot next to the force’s new headquarters building.

The divisional HQ is spread over four floors and wraps around a single-storey custody block to the south. A glass-roofed internal street runs the full length of the building, creating a break between the office and the custody areas. Large pre-cast concrete elements frame the office elevation together with lighter glass panels.

David Burkinshaw, on behalf of developers, Ask:Goodman, said: “Ask:Goodman has now delivered a total of 700,000 sq ft of new business space in Central Park. The handover is a significant step forward for the park and GMP’s programme to replace existing facilities in order to improve services.   

“Together with Force HQ, more than 1,500 people will occupy the two buildings. This will boost the business community already based here and proves that Central Park is an ideal location for many businesses.”

Cllr Paul Murphy of Manchester City Council, who is also chairman of GMPA, said: “It’s great to see this fantastic building come to life in the heart of the communities we serve. This has been in the planning for many years and, as with the new Force HQ just across the road, the North Manchester Divisional HQ will provide modern, fit-for-purpose facilities enabling officers and staff to work more efficiently and provide a police service to the residents of North Manchester that is not only effective, but also represents value for money.”

A dedicated Metrolink stop to Central Park will open later this year.