New Market Drayton eco-friendly police station open to public

Shropshire's first purpose-built eco-friendly police station is now open to the public.

The station has been built on the same site as the previous one in Salisbury Road, Market Drayton.

The new station has been designed to offer improved facilities for staff and the public.

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Built with sustainable materials, solar panels and a 'green roof' made from plants, it is designed to be as energy efficient as possible, reducing the force's carbon footprint and energy bills.

The old 1930s station remained open throughout the construction work which started in August last year. Demolition of that building has now started and all the materials recovered will be reclaimed to be reused or sold on.

Chief Inspector Martin Whitelegg said: "I'm pleased to say the station has opened on time and will provide a fantastic new facility for the people of Market Drayton as well as our officers and staff.

"The front counter is up-to-date and truly accessible to all members of the community, something the old station never achieved.

"West Mercia Police is keen to show its commitment to the most efficient use of public money and renewable energy.

"The station is packed with energy and money-saving features. Some of the land from the site will also be sold to pay for some of the construction costs."

Police said the designers developed a contemporary design that is sensitive to both the surrounding area and the environment.

Michelle Williams, of consultants Associated Architects, said: "It is designed to receive large amounts of natural light, dramatically reducing the energy demand from artificial lighting.

"The green roof to the pitched side assists water retention for plant growth, allowing the building to facilitate an increase in plant species on the site, whilst acting as thermal insulation for the roof."