Milestone reached as SPSA unlock the door to new forensic facility
A significant milestone will take place today (22nd February) in Dundee as the keys are handed over to the Scottish Police Services Authority (SPSA) for their new purpose-built forensic facility on the banks of the River Tay.
Unicorn Property Group, the developers of the DundeeOne site, have completed the build ahead of schedule and will officially sign over ownership of the new building to SPSA Forensic Services.
The Scottish Police Services Authority signed up to DundeeOne in November 2008, making a commitment to build Scotland's first purpose-built forensic laboratory in almost 15 years.
The new modern forensic facility will house the DNA Database, the biology and chemistry laboratories and the fingerprint and scene examination units previously based in converted office space at Tayside Police Headquarters.
Tom Nelson, Director SPSA Forensic Services said:
"This is an exciting time for our organisation and for our people. We have been working closely with the developers and architects to ensure that the laboratory design and layout reflects that of a modern, functional space fit for scientific purposes and I am delighted with the progress that has been made so far.
"The new forensic facility will provide our forensic experts with a working environment that fits their specific needs and is adaptable to changing demands. Much work has been done to ensure that the final result is fit-for-purpose and inspires and motivates the individuals and teams who are tackling crime in the 21st century and beyond.
"This is a major milestone in the projects development and we can now begin our programme of migration to relocate all laboratory equipment and staff to the new facility.
"Managing a relocation on this scale is a complex task and has taken many months of planning and preparation. It is our intention to undertake a period of phased occupation to the new facility over the coming months and we expect to have the building fully operational late Spring 2010."
Tim Allan, Director of Unicorn Property Group, added: "Our close working partnership with the SPSA has helped ensure that City Court will provide the best environment in which they can continue to carry out crucial forensic investigation for years to come.
"DundeeOne represents a significant boost to the city's economy and the purpose built SPSA facility is a fine example of the state of the art business opportunities we are creating for Dundee's waterfront."