A NEW police headquarters in Reading has been confirmed, with the move due to take place in 2021.

After 40 years in the centre of Reading, the new area headquarters will be Atlantic House, located off Imperial Way.

Thames Valley Police has been seeking a move away from the existing site since 2012, due to the deterioration of the building and high running costs.

In addition to the exchange of contracts, efforts are being made to secure another facility to provide intelligence from the town centre.

Anthony Stansfeld, Police and Crime Commissioner, said “I am pleased to have secured a new area headquarters in Reading.

"The search for a property that meets Thames Valley Police’s needs has been ongoing over a number of years so it is good news to have exchanged contracts on Atlantic House.

"The move to a new location has become a necessity as the existing building is no longer fit for purpose and costly to maintain.

“It is also important to us and to the public that Thames Valley Police continues to have a visible presence in the centre of Reading which is accessible to members of the public and a base for neighbourhood policing.

"In addition to our new area headquarters, we will continue to look for a suitable town centre facility to meet these needs to ensure continuity of service.”

The force says the building has become too expensive to run and is much larger than needed for modern policing requirements.

Atlantic House is described as a 'modern' three-storey building, with parking, located south of the town centre.

John Campbell, Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police, added: “Following completion of the sale, Atlantic House will require refurbishment and adaptation before Thames Valley Police take occupancy.

"Occupation of the building is expected to take place in early 2021.

“In addition to this building, Thames Valley Police will be looking to secure a visible town centre facility to include a front counter, town centre facing neighbourhood base and office facilities, to support policing of the busy town centre.”