The custody suite at Bournville Lane police station has reopened this week.
The refurbished suite opening comes as the number of arrests across the West Midlands continues to climb with positive outcomes increasing and overall crime reducing.
Before the site reopened officers had to use cells in Perry Barr, Stechford or other areas of the West Midlands.
In 2022, just four custody facilities were open but West Midlands Police now have more up to date operational cells than ever before.
There are 17 cells at the refurbished south Birmingham site which has seen significant changes since it was last used.
Medical facilities have been upgraded, the cells have been updated, new cctv and audio facilities have been installed, space has been created for partners who specialise in mental health and drug rehabilitation. The team also have remote access to youth support workers and veteran support services.
Chief Constable Craig Guildford said: “We have now opened three extra custody blocks since 2022, which gives us a distinct operational advantage in serving the public, as we are quite rightly arresting more people and seeing much better outcomes from our investigations.
“Custody will never be a perfect science, on occasions for very good reason cell blocks get busy and we often find ourselves dealing with a range of complex needs within a vast amount of regulation and guidance. That said I believe we have delivered a more balanced system which is focused on supporting our frontline officers in making pro-active arrests whilst ensuring that all the elements of safer detention are sensibly addressed.”
Chief superintendent Andy Parsons, head of West Midlands Police’s Criminal Justice Services, said: “While good, the facilities are far from luxurious. Custody remains a very challenging environment where we are responsible for many very vulnerable people with often complex needs.
Interested in a career working in one of West Midlands Police’s custody facilities? See latest vacancies on their job site.