A £600 million headquarters for City of London Police will open next year, it has been announced.
Salisbury Square is nicknamed the “Justice Quarter” because it will also house 18 courtrooms dedicated to economic and cybercrime cases.
The flagship office complex - under construction off Fleet Street - is part of the UK-wide fightback against fraud which costs Britons £1billion a year.
Commissioner Pete O’Doherty, speaking at a “topping out” ceremony marking completion of the building’s highest point, said: “I’m excited for the benefits this new headquarters will realise for our officers and staff and those we serve in the Square Mile and beyond in our role as national lead Force for fraud and cybercrime.
“Having modern, purpose-built facilities that help ensure the health and wellbeing of staff and will allow us to deliver on our Policing Plan priorities to keep people in the City safe, improve the national response to fraud, economic and cybercrime, and secure positive outcomes for victims.
“Reaching this milestone is a reminder that behind the steel and concrete, is a shared commitment to our staff and our public as we continue to put victims at the heart of everything we do.
“This building is a tribute to their professionalism, dedication and service to the public.”
Last year, City of London was graded “outstanding” for crime recording and “good” for investigations and response by watchdog His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary.
Tijs Broeke, chair of the City of London Police Authority Board, added: “No other UK police service matches its specialist expertise or national reach in combatting economic crime.”
Chris Hayward, of the City Corporation, said: “Our £600 million investment in Salisbury Square is a once-in-a-generation contribution to national policing, justice infrastructure, and economic growth.
“It will provide the City of London Police with the cutting-edge space and technology required to deliver faster justice for victims, protect people and businesses, and uphold confidence in the integrity of the UK’s financial system.”
