PROPOSALS by Warwickshire and West Mercia Police could see Hereford and Worcester Fire Service join them at a new shared base in Worcester.
Hindlip Park already houses both police forces, but an application has been made by the three organisations for a shared Operational Command and Control centre.
The site already acts as a major incident command centre where the emergency services coordinate responses, but the plans have been put forward to increase the partnership between the services even further.
Police and Fire chiefs claim the new centre will improve responses to incidents and make the organisations more efficient for the future, especially at a time of budget cuts.
Amanda Blakeman, Assistant Chief Constable for Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police said: “This is a positive step forward for our plans for a shared Operational Command and Control centre with the fire service.
“We have worked closely with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and we are excited about the proposals we are putting forward.
“Getting the go ahead to build this shared centre will help us both deliver the best possible service as efficiently and effectively for the communities we serve.”
Assistant Chief Fire Officer John Hodges said: “Existing ventures with the police have proved to be highly beneficial and we believe that the shared OCC centre will result in greater operational capabilities, better working relationships and a more intelligent response to incidents.
“Collaboration of this kind will also ensure we make the best use of our resources and create a sustainable future for the service.”
