PLANNERS have approved a new fire station for Bishop's Waltham.

The existing station in Lower Lane will be demolished and work is set to start on a modern replacement and training tower in early 2022.

The retained firefighters will temporarily relocate to a nearby industrial estate and will remain operational through the the work.

The decision was made by Winchester City Council planning officers using their delegated powers.

The fire service says the new station will provide better working and training facilities for our firefighters, plus dedicated facilities for community engagement.

Cllr Rhydian Vaughan, chairman of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority, said: “I am delighted that plans for building a new fire station in Bishop’s Waltham can move forward. This is great news for the local community and our firefighters.”

Working collaboratively through the Southern Construction Framework, Morgan Sindall Construction will be leading the work at Bishop’s Waltham.

Alan Smedley, programme lead for Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service on their Station Investment Programme.

“Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service are investing significantly into modernising facilities to reflect the ever-changing requirements of the fire service and the thriving communities they serve.

“We are extremely excited to begin work on the new fire station and training area in Bishop’s Waltham, and to collaborate with local residents and community groups to deliver a positive social and economic legacy for the area.”

The fire service is investing £27m in new stations with plans for Redbridge and Cosham. Planning applications will submitted later this year.