GWENT'S largest police custody unit re-opened today after a £500,000 refurbishment.

The 28 cells at Newport Central police station were closed for four months while they were improved.

Additional CCTV cameras were installed, covering the entire custody unit area. This increased the number of cameras from 28 to 41.

The four custody unit desks are now each fitted with cameras and sound recording equipment.

One of the desks is also designed for people who use a wheelchair and is fitted with a hearing loop.

New storage facilities and administrative rooms were added, including a police writing room, equipped with computer, printer, tape copying, fax machine and photocopier facilities.

This will mean operational officers do not have to leave the custody unit to complete paperwork, enabling a more efficient service.

One of the two shower rooms is now suitable for detainees with disabilities.

Six cells are fitted with a life sign monitoring system - new equipment which monitors the movement and health of the person in custody.

The unit is also equipped with 12 mobile panic alarms for officers, ten anti-harm suits and a dedicated search room.

Superintendent Jon Burley, head of Gwent Police's criminal justice department said: "This custody unit is one of the busiest in Gwent with over 11,000 detainees coming through it last year.

"With this refurbishment we have ensured that the latest facilities are available to our staff and to detainees.

"By making the most of the facilities we already had, but by rearranging them, for example, by reducing the size of the exercise yard we have enabled two suitably positioned administration rooms and a storage room to be built.

"The layout of the booking in area has also been improved to provide suitable work surfaces and greater visibility for officers."

The unit was be re-opened yesterday by the chairwoman and vice-chairman of the Police Authority.