Future-proofing policing in Portsmouth with long-term taxpayer savings

The long-term future of Portsmouth’s Eastern Police Investigation Centre (EPIC) has been secured, while delivering substantial savings for taxpayers.

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones completed the freehold purchase for the Airport Service Road site, which is expected to save at least £36m compared to the lease deal, which had been agreed in 2017.

The £27.55m capital purchase of the freehold for the EPIC site comes after extensive financial and property due diligence, with support from property advisers Vail Williams. The projected investment payback period is around 17 years.

EPIC is a key building within Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s estate, housing vital policing and investigative teams as well as a 36-cell custody suite.

EPIC opened in 2017, built on land owned by BA Pension Funds under a 50-year lease agreement, which was due to run until 2068.

Donna Jones said: “This is a sensible long-term investment that protects a critical policing asset while also delivering major savings for taxpayers.

“The public rightly expect us to spend taxpayers’ money carefully. This is a one-off capital investment, forecast to save at least £36 million over the remaining life of the original lease.

“Had the lease agreement continued and circumstances changed, there was a risk that the EPIC may need to relocate, at significant cost to the taxpayer.

“By acquiring the freehold, we are protecting the infrastructure that supports frontline policing and ensuring taxpayers get the best possible value over the long term.”

Gary Jeffries, of Vail Williams, said: “We have been pleased to help the Police and Crime Commissioner with this strategic acquisition and to strengthen the police estate in Hampshire for the long-term.”