WORK is due to start on building a station which will accommodate both police and fire service staff in Prescot.

Partners Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority, Merseyside Police, the Police and Crime Commissioner and Knowsley Council gathered at the site, in Manchester Road, for a 'turf-cutting' ceremony to mark the start of the construction.

The station is being created with the aim of meeting cuts in government funding while maintaining services for the areas. The site was chosen as the best emergency response location cover surrounding areas.

Fire stations in Whiston and Huyton will close when the new station is in operation, which is hoped to be February 2018.

Police and crime commissioner for Merseyside, Jane Kennedy, said: "I am pleased that we are now in a position to officially get work underway on this new community fire and police station for Prescot.

"This joint community station is a good example of our shared commitment to working together to provide the best possible service to people on Merseyside.

"Not only will this centre reduce costs and increase efficiency, it will also enable officers and firefighters to work in closer partnership in facilities which are modern and fit for purpose."

The site was secured from Knowsley Council, and the station will be built by Wates Construction with building cost assistance from the Department of Communities and Local Government via a capital grant.

Tony Shenton, business unit director of Wates Construction North West, added: "When investment is made to enhance and modernise the operations of vital front-line services, the absolute priority is that best value for money is achieved.

“Our longstanding partnership with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Services, along with our local knowledge and reputation as a leading contractor in the region, will enable us to once again deliver an essential emergency services project efficiency and effectively.”

Preparation works on site will take place this month with building work starting in the new year.