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Work has officially started on Staffordshire Police’s new £20.6m armed training facility, a project designed to strengthen the force’s ability to respond to firearms incidents and keep communities safe.
The centre, being built at Staffordshire Police headquarters in Stafford, will replace the current leased outdoor range and provide a permanent, purpose-built site under the force’s direct control.
The investment follows a review launched in 2021 by Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Ben Adams, which assessed future requirements for armed deployments and explored potential collaboration with neighbouring forces. That option was ruled out, leading to the decision to create a bespoke facility within the county.
The new training complex will feature a state-of-the-art, soundproofed 10-lane 50-metre indoor firing range, as well as training rooms, office space and a “skills house” for building entry and search exercises. The facility will meet all health and safety legislation and national training standards while also ensuring officers can deploy more quickly when needed in Staffordshire.
Commissioner Adams said the project balances public safety with value for money. “Police firearms deployments in Staffordshire are relatively low, but when our communities need an armed response to keep them safe, it is essential the force has the right training and facilities in place to deliver the highest quality service,” he said. “This investment is part of a wider estates plan to ensure buildings are sustainable and future-proof.”
Assistant Chief Constable Paul Talbot highlighted the importance of the new facility for maintaining rigorous standards. “These new facilities are a necessity, enabling our specially trained firearms officers to meet the national training requirements in threat assessment, de-escalation and conflict resolution,” he said. “This investment will ensure our firearms training continues to protect and prevent harm, reassure the public and support colleagues and partners.”
Construction is scheduled to be completed by November 2026.
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