A new, fit-for-purpose, joint police and fire station at the heart of the community in Redditch has moved a step closer.
Planning has now been submitted for the new hub site on Middle House Lane, which will be shared by West Mercia Police and Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS).
PCC John Campion said: “The current police station is not fit for purpose and hasn’t been for some time. This partnership solution enables improvements for vital emergency services, maintains the visible police presence local people want, supports the local economy, and achieves best value for local taxpayers. I’m pleased to be delivering these improvements for the community in Redditch.”
Chief Fire Officer Jon Pryce said: “We’re pleased to be progressing this joint development with the OPCC and West Mercia Police.
“It will provide a new facility enabling HWFRS to deliver its core strategies of Response, Protection and Prevention. The new shared facility will also strengthen joint responses to emergencies, and builds on our commitment to collaborate with our blue-light partners.”
The Blue Light Hub project is supported through the One Public Estate (OPE) initiative.
Edward Hancox, Superintendent at West Mercia Police, said: “We’re delighted that this project is progressing. A new home for West Mercia Police is much needed in Redditch and will help us to continue to deliver an excellent level of service to the communities we serve. Being co-located with HWFRS will further strengthen our partnership and allow us to provide the best possible response to joint incidents, and ultimately keep our communities even safer.”