Demolition has begun on Gloucestershire Constabulary's operations base at Bamfurlong after planning permission for the makeover was passed.

The base, close to the end of the Golden Valley bypass near Cheltenham, has housed the force's response teams, dogs, firearms offices and collision investigators since 1978.

Police and Crime Commissioner Martin Surl said the modernisation is needed to meet the needs of a modern force.

He said: "This redevelopment will not only improve the service the Constabulary is able to provide to the public and enhance the wellbeing of officers and staff, but will also meet our commitment to a green and pleasant county by using a brownfield site and reducing environmental impact

"In short, Bamfurlong will be an enhanced asset for the constabulary and Office of the PCC for generations to come and we are delighted the work can now begin."

Estimated costs for the work, which began this week under contractors Willmott Dixon, sit at £12.8million with more than £6million savings achieved through a decision to modernise a structurally sound vehicle workshop on the site rather that demolish it completely.

Chief Constable Rod Hansen said: "Bamfurlong is of critical importance to us as it provides a geographically ideal base for a range of police units and gives our teams quick and easy access to major routes in the county when responding to incidents.

"It has been in urgent need of redevelopment for some time and it is very important we support our staff and make sure they have the best possible working environment so they can provide the best service to the public."