Wiltshire Police unveils plans for new Southern Policing Hub at Old Sarum
Land purchased to create facility meeting current and future policing demands in south Wiltshire
Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson has confirmed the acquisition of six acres of land at Old Sarum, near Salisbury, as part of plans to develop a Southern Policing Hub.
The facility is set to become a modern base for officers, staff, and volunteers, aiming to enhance frontline policing and respond effectively to the needs of communities in south Wiltshire.
This purchase marks a key milestone for the Safer South Wiltshire programme, which began following a 2021 review of Wiltshire Police’s operational estate, initiated by Mr Wilkinson. An updated analysis in 2023, led by Chief Constable Catherine Roper, concluded that a new hub was required to meet both current and future policing demands.
Securing the right site
Extensive collaboration between Wiltshire Police, Wiltshire Council, and Salisbury City Council, resulted in the identification of Old Sarum as the preferred location in 2022. The site was chosen based on factors such as accessibility, operational requirements, costs, and opportunities to improve community engagement.
Mr Wilkinson said: “Securing this land demonstrates our commitment to delivering an accessible and effective policing facility for south Wiltshire communities, even with financial pressures in mind.
“This project has involved four years of planning and collaboration to ensure the site meets our operational needs with flexibility for future growth.
“We are focused on ensuring this hub is delivered sustainably and responsibly, supporting our teams and addressing the public’s priorities on tackling crime and keeping communities safe.”
Plans for the hub
The new facility will support neighbourhood and response teams, specialist units, and other operational services, with state-of-the-art infrastructure designed to enhance productivity and community engagement.
Features of the hub include:
- Enhanced response times and visibility
- Effective support for policing teams
- Sustainable infrastructure to meet future policing demand
While there are no immediate plans for a new custody facility on-site, this remains under review based on operational needs and cost considerations.
Financial considerations
Costs for the project are incorporated into the Medium-Term Financial Strategy, funded through borrowing to secure sustainable development. Mr Wilkinson highlighted the importance of continuing estate investment amid challenging financial conditions.
Chief Constable Catherine Roper said: “This marks a significant step in ensuring our officers and staff are equipped with facilities enabling smarter work and a stronger community presence.
"We are committed to delivering the hub responsibly to provide value for money and ensure Wiltshire Police remain effective in meeting community needs.”
Design work will begin immediately, with an outline planning application expected in Autumn 2026. Engagement activities with local communities, including those in Old Sarum and Salisbury, are planned to ensure transparency and collaboration.
The development aligns with the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan priorities, including visible policing, sustainable infrastructure investment, and building confidence in Wiltshire Police.