Newent and Winchcombe Community Fire and Rescue Stations are set to become joint operating bases for both police and firefighters.

Based at Newent Community Fire and Rescue Station on Bridge Street, the shared space for the two service becomes fully operational as of today (July 31st).

A spokesman said the shared facilities will be invaluable for closer work in partnership "bringing the two emergency services teams together in local communities. 

The go-ahead for the dual use of the station was originally confirmed at a meeting of Gloucestershire County Council's Fire and Rescue Scrutiny Committee last  November.

"Police officers can conduct foot patrols from their new bases and become embedded in these more rural communities. The teams can use the building for pre-arranged appointments, training, or meetings with the public and other agencies, as well as responding to emergencies," the spokesman said.

The building is also expected to serve as a base for local Special Constables and Volunteer Police Community Support Officers, which the Police and Crime Commissioner and Constabulary are working to expand.

Chris Nelson, Police and Crime Commissioner, said: "It is vital that we have the right infrastructure to support these new shared bases. My office has made a considerable investment to deliver on improvement works that will benefit police, fire and the communities they serve.

"We are looking forwarding to working far more closely with our colleagues in the County Council and Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service."

Cllr Dave Norman, cabinet member for the Fire and Rescue Service, said: "I am delighted to support the collaborative spaces between our fire and rescue service and police partners. This is a great example of how our emergency services can work together to provide the best possible services for our communities. The collaborative spaces at both Newent and Winchcombe community fire and rescue stations will support both services to provide high-quality service from stations which are in the heart of the community to the residents of Newent and Winchcombe, as well as ensuring value for money."

Mark Preece, Gloucestershire's Chief Fire Officer, said: "I am very pleased that our police partners have now joined us at our shared facilities at both Newent and Winchcombe Community Fire and Rescue Stations. I am confident that working together collaboratively with our emergency service partners will continue to enhance the services we provide to our communities. Working together towards our common goal, a safer Gloucestershire."