The EARL of Wessex officially opened Merseyside Police’s new headquarters today.
Prince Edward was welcomed by Merseyside’s Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell and Chief Constable Serena Kennedy as he formally declared the £4m landmark headquarters open.
Before his arrival, the Crime Commissioner and Chief Constable greeted police staff stating the royal visit was a “moment in history” for the force.
Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said: “We want to how to his highness the breadth of what Merseyside Police is about.
“It’s a momentous day for Merseyside Police. It is a moment in history, and you are all part of it.”
After being greeted by the Commissioner and Chief Constable, his royal highness, accompanied by the High Sheriff, Nigel Lanceley, was welcomed by a guard of honour including mounted police officers, the Merseyside Police band, and a group of Mini Police Officers.
He was then taken on a tour of the building by the Police Commissioner and Chief Constable, meeting officers, staff, and cadets to find out about their work.
After the tour, the Police Commissioner invited Prince Edward to unveil a plaque and sign the visitor’s book to mark the occasion.
Merseyside’s Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell said: “In keeping with tradition, I am pleased that His Royal Highness, the Earl of Wessex, is able to give his time to officially open Merseyside Police’s spectacular new headquarters, Rose Hill.
“The opening of this state-of-the-art police base is a major success story for Merseyside Police.
“It is purpose-built to give officers and staff the facilities they need to meet the challenges of modern policing, serve our communities and fight crime, now and into the future.
“This stunning new flagship headquarters is also built to be as sustainable and energy-efficient as possible.
“That means it will save us £250,000 on the force’s annual running costs – vital funds which can be directed straight into frontline policing.”
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