A BIRCHWOOD business is the first in the county to receive a new police award.

The Environment Agency, based at Birchwood Point Business Park, was given the 'Secured by Design Commercial' accolade by Cheshire Constabulary.

The building incorporates valuable security measures and was designed and built by HBG Properties in liaison with the police's Crime Prevention Department and the Force Architectural Liaison Officer.

Police Community Safety Officer David Betts said: "It is particularly pleasing that the Environment Agency is the first in Cheshire to receive this award.

"We have worked closely with them and HBG Properties to achieve a working environment which is both safe and secure. This award demonstrates that security measures can be aesthetically pleasing and do not have to require a fortress mentality"

Force Architectural Liaison Officer Mark Antrobus added: "This is an excellent example of how the police, architects, developers and the local authority can work together in partnership."

Clive Perrin, Regional Director HBG Properties, said he was delighted to receive the award.

"Our research indicated that occupiers' concerns over security were second only to the location of premises and HBG seek 'Secure by Design' accreditation on all our commercial developments."

Sgt David Betts presents ** with the Secured by Design Commercial award

United action leads to top security award

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