POLICE are to have their own base in the Kingfisher Centre.

Work is now under way to create a police office in Evesham Walk, which will hopefully be open around Christmas or the New Year.

The new venture has been welcomed by centre manager Ian McLelland.

He said: "The new venture with West Mercia Constabulary aims to not only provide a deterrent for potential criminals but also provide reassurance to our customers that the centre is a safe place to shop.

"Thankfully, we have very little crime. But I believe it will be a comfort to shoppers to know help is at hand should it be needed.

Insp Gareth Prosser, of Redditch police, said the project had been in the pipeline for some time.

"There were strict health and safety regulations that had to be met and that has now happened," he said.

He added his officers could now complete their paperwork at the centre and their presence should help deter shoplifters.