Force plans new city headquarters

West Yorkshire Police has unveiled plans for a new divisional headquarters on Elland Road.

The force wants to move its City and Holbeck HQ from Burton Road to the site of the former greyhound stadium next to Leeds United's Elland Road ground.

The nine-acre site is currently used for parking on match days.

The police authority said the old site was "no longer fit for purpose" and it intended to submit a planning application early in the new year.

It hopes to secure funding for the multi-million pound development under a private finance initiative.

'Much-needed space'

The new headquarters will house the Holbeck Neighbourhood Policing Team, the division's CID and other specialist teams, as well as a new custody suite, administration and other departments.

West Yorkshire Police Authority Chairman Mark Burns-Williamson, said: "The police authority is pleased to support this investment which was agreed following consideration of a detailed business case.

"As a result of investment in police officers... the old building is now too small and no longer fit for purpose.

"A new headquarters will provide much-needed space and facilities more suited to the needs of modern policing.

"The project is also good news for Leeds and beyond as the new build will have a positive impact on the local economy and forms part of an ambitious programme to modernise the estate of the police authority throughout West Yorkshire in coming years."