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Services to share home
From the Swindon Advertiser, first published Friday 23rd Mar 2001.
FIREFIGHTERS and police will soon be working side by side in Bradford on Avon with the unveiling of plans to house the two emergency services under one roof.
A planning application to extend the existing fire station in St Margaret's Street, to provide accommodation for the town's sergeant and constables, is due to be submitted to West Wiltshire District Council.
The move, intended to save costs and promote partnership working, will also bring the police closer to the centre of town.
Superintendent Martin Abbott, divisional commander of C Division, responsible for policing in Bradford, said: "The ability for both emergency services to share accommodation will allow us to foster an even closer operational understanding with an immense benefit to both services and the public we serve. In time I see further opportunities for us to combine fire and police services in rural locations."
The move has been welcomed in Bradford where the existing police station in Avonfield Avenue has often been criticised for being inaccessible.
Town and district councillor Minna Gillham said: "A town centre location for the police station is something the town council has been pushing for, for many years. We look forward to seeing the detailed plans."
Firefighters and police will share common areas in the building including a kitchen and rest-room, while the operation areas will remain separate.
Cllr Malcolm Hewson said; "Clearly a town centre location is better for the town, subject to assurances that the police are looking to provide a more efficient service and not a reduction."
Plans are also being prepared to combine the fire and police stations in Mere. The cost of both moves will be met through the sale of the existing police stations.
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