FIREFIGHTERS and police officers have moved into a new shared joint-station in Prescot.

The purpose-built station, constructed on a former industrial site on the junction of Manchester Road and Cables Way, will accommodate firefighters and the area’s local policing team.

This is the first time since 1946 that Prescot has had a fire station after Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority, Merseyside Police, the Police and Crime Commissioner, and Knowsley MBC worked together to bring the station to fruition.

The two-acre site was chosen for the merger of Huyton and Whiston fire stations, with fire crews providing a 24-hour response.

The station has three fire engine bays and modern training facilities, including a drill tower which can be used to simulate and practise different types of roof rescue - and two rooms available free of charge for use by community groups.

Hundreds of bushes and small trees were also planted and a number of bird boxes put up to safeguard on-site wildlife.

House arson prevention teams and the Prince’s Trust will also run courses from the station.

Facilities including the kitchen, dining area and gym will be shared by the emergency services, helping to support collaboration.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service chief fire officer Dan Stephens said: “We have fire crew working from the station, with more staff set to move in.

“The station is equipped with modern facilities and located to provide the best possible response to incidents in South Knowsley.

“The new community fire station allows ourselves and Merseyside Police, to continue to serve the public as effectively as possible, given ongoing budget cuts.

“An official opening event will be held later this year.”

Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner Jane Kennedy added: “I am pleased that the neighbourhood team and firefighting team are now in a position to start work from the new shared station for Prescot.

“This joint community station is a great 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.

“This is another step towards fulfilling my 10-year pledge to provide the officers and staff of Merseyside Police the buildings they need to best serve the public, now and for years to come.”

Once a week, the station will open to enable the policing team to meet with members of the community and address their concerns.

Site preparation works began in November 2016, with the building work starting early in 2017.