POLICE officers based in Boscombe have been able to move back into their purpose-built facility after it was hit by flooding.

Boscombe Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) have returned to their base in Christchurch Road following a water leak from a privately-owned flat above.

The leak, which happened last month, caused damage to the Boscombe Hub building and some equipment, leading to officers being temporarily re-located to Christchurch Police Station.

Bournemouth Chief Inspector Mike Claxton said that despite the move having no impact on the police's operational response, they made it a priority for the team to return to the Boscombe Hub.

He added that 'it is fundamentally important to us that we have a presence in the community.'

Following talks with Bournemouth council, whose staff share the building, officers were able to work from a different office within the hub and were granted access to the council's server for their work.

Chief Inspector Claxton added: "We are really grateful to the council for helping to facilitate this, particularly to the partners working within the hub who have agreed to move offices whilst the repair work is completed.

"The NPT is excited to be back in the area and will continue to tackle local issues in partnership with others."