By Steven Bell

JUSTICE SECRETARY Kenny MacAskill last night confirmed that a “much-needed” crime-fighting lab is to be built in Dundee.

Millions of pounds will be invested in the forensic science centre in the city after years of pressure to replace the existing lab.

The decision means the Scottish Police Services Authority—set up last year to provide forensic services to all Scottish forces—can now work with developers to acquire a site for the new-build lab.

But the minister also said he has asked SPSA to look again at the proposed closure of the lab in Aberdeen and its implications for the provision of forensic services to Grampian Police and Northern Constabulary.

No decision will be taken to close the Aberdeen lab—which was in line to merge with Dundee—in the meantime.

“The question of how best to provide forensic services to Scotland’s eight police forces has been the subject of detailed discussions for several years,” said Mr MacAskill.

“It is clear that the four existing labs cannot continue to provide a high-quality service without substantial new investment. Following careful consideration, I have approved SPSA’s proposals for a new-build, state-of-the-art lab in Dundee.

“When completed in 2009, this purpose-built facility will greatly enhance the provision of forensic services in Scotland, benefiting the Scottish police service and the wider criminal justice system.”

At present there are forensic science laboratories in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen, but there was widespread recognition investment was needed for purpose-built facilities.

“I am clear that all eight Scottish police forces, including Grampian and Northern, must receive the best possible forensic service,” he said.

“That is why I have approved SPSA’s proposal for a much-needed new forensic laboratory in Dundee, replacing the existing cramped and unsatisfactory facility.

“This is an example of the way in which the SPSA can drive and deliver real improvements in the quality and efficiency of police support services.”

Ministers have already agreed that a new laboratory should be built as part of the Glasgow Crime Campus.

Following a review of forensic facilities, SPSA submitted a business case proposing to integrate the Aberdeen and Dundee laboratories into a new-build centre at Dundee.

“The Government has been persuaded by the clear and convincing case put forward for a new-build laboratory facility in Dundee,” said SPSA chief executive David Mulhern. “However, the Justice Secretary has asked us to look again at the issues that surround our initial proposal to close the Aberdeen laboratory.”

Dundee is already home to the Scottish DNA database and has lobbied for an extension to its forensics department for some time.

The cost of the centre was estimated at £13 million in 2005.

Tayside Chief Constable John Vine told The Courier, “I am absolutely delighted to hear of this development.

“It is something that I have campaigned for over several years and I am sure that it will fit perfectly within the portfolio of scientific excellence that flourishes in Dundee.

“Tayside Police put a business case forward to the Scottish Executive to re- locate the Police Forensic Science Laboratory Dundee to another tailored or purpose-built site in the city about five years ago, as the facility outgrew its base within Tayside Police headquarters.

“The new facilities will allow the Scottish Police Services Authority (SPSA) to enhance the service it currently provides, with Dundee at the heart of developing forensic excellence.

“At the same time, re- location of the laboratory will free up much needed space for other functions.”

He added, “I commend the Scottish Government for the decision they have taken.”

Subject to further consideration by the SPSA board, the Dundee lab could see a seven-figure investment over a number of years.

Figures on projected costs will only be finalised after talks with developers, and the Government said these would be in “commercial confidence” until finalised.

“In the SPSA’s first year, we have become the first part of the UK to deliver an integrated forensic service from crime scene through to court,” added Mr Mulhern.

“Now as we enter year two, we are looking to ensure we have the foundations in place to deliver that integrated service for many years to come.”