Published at 16:29, Tuesday, 15 January 2013

THE site of a new South Copeland fire station has been revealed.

A former highways depot in Station Road, Bootle, will be transformed into a new fire station after the village’s existing provision was described as not fit for purpose by the crew.

Cumbria County Council and Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service has revealed the location for the new station to the Evening Mail, but said development was in the early stages.

Architects are now producing designs for the building, which will have additional space for training sessions for the retained team.

Copeland Borough Councillor for Bootle, Councillor Keith Hitchen, said: “I understand it is going to be available for the community to use as well, so it will be a big asset.

“We’re glad that it’s going to happen because it gives us a more secure future for the provision.

“I would think residents will be very happy with the news because it is securing the fire service in Bootle and provides jobs.

“Training opportunities will also be an advantage as well because it will encourage young people to come into the service.

“Having the service in Bootle is going to give us a feeling of security that we’ll be able to meet the needs of safety in the future.”

The Bootle fire station replacement was part of a £72.7m private finance scheme announced in 2008.

Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service wanted to create community fire stations to replace ageing bases, including Bootle.

A Cumbria County Council spokesman said: “Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service has been working with the county council’s strategic investment and property unit and has now identified a preferred site for the development of a new community fire station for Bootle.

“The site is located at the existing highways depot and it is hoped that shared welfare facilities and office accommodation within the new building will provide additional benefits.”

Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk