A NEW policing hub which will host some of Hampshire's top detectives is a step closer to completion.

Hampshire Constabulary's Eastern Police Investigation Centre was given a 'topping out' ceremony this weekend.

The event marked the completion of the steelwork and concrete core of the building, based in Portsmouth.

It was attended by the Police and Crime Commissioner, the Chief Constable of Hampshire Constabulary, and hosted by Mace, the contractors constructing this crucial infrastructure.

The building, which was given planning permission in 2017, is scheduled to be operational by summer 2019.

Michael Lane, Police and Crime Commissioner said: "I am delighted to be here today to mark this important milestone in the construction of the Police Investigation Centre.

"Everybody involved in the partnership to ensure this important building is completed has my support. I’m delighted that we are on time and on budget.

“This new centre will integrate an investigation hub and custody suite in facilities that are fit for the future.

"It will lead to more efficient processing and investigation of detainees and will return arresting officers back to policing in their local communities more quickly.

“It will contribute to modern, operationally effective policing that will support the community in helping to keep us all safer."

Olivia Pinkney, Chief Constable said: “This is such a huge deal operationally, and for the hundreds of officers and staff who are really excited about being here.

"I know that it will make a vast difference to them, to the effectiveness of what they do, and to their productivity and how they feel.

Once complete, the building will provide modern flexible work and collaboration spaces with natural daylight and ventilation for 430 officers, investigators and staff.