WINCHESTER City Council has completed the construction of three industrial units in Bishop’s Waltham.

The council has let the first unit on the Lower Lane site to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.

Firefighters will move into the site whilst a new station is built on their existing premises on Hoe Road.

The new development saw the demolition of the 1950s warehouses. Initial work was undertaken in September 2020 and the construction of the three light industrial units was completed this month.

The £1.5m investment includes 78 roof-mounted photovoltaic panels to ensure a high sustainability, as well as three electric vehicle charging points and the installation of a low-energy LED lighting system.

The building is expected to be awarded a high BREEAM rating (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) in 2022 when assessors complete their final checks on the development.

Cllr Kelsie Learney, cabinet member for housing and asset management, said: “I am pleased that the development in Bishop’s Waltham is now complete and that our first lease is to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.

“The new industrial units have been designed to support businesses in the southern parishes of the district, providing high quality, energy-efficient, light industrial accommodation in the popular market town. It is hoped that the new units will bolster the development of local companies who wish to expand.”

Arron Hedges, head of properties and facilities at HIWFRS, said: “We are looking forward to moving into our temporary new home when work gets underway to create a new and improved fire station in Bishop’s Waltham.”