Managers say the centre will save lives

The �2.6m state-of-the-art control room will house about 300 police, fire and ambulance staff, all working on the same floor.

It is believed to be the first of its kind in the country.

Unveiling a plaque to mark the occasion, Prince Charles said: "I'm sure the centre will prove to be an enormously valuable example for others to follow elsewhere."

Valued volunteers

He spoke of how impressed he had been with the centre and the value of volunteers who helped the emergency services.

He discussed his own time as a volunteer coastguard while at school, speaking of the importance of giving young people such roles to play.

He joked that at the time he had watched from the Scottish cliffs hoping an aircraft carrier would crash.

The centre in Quedgeley also houses the fire and ambulance service headquarters.

Co-ordinated approach

And by 2005 the police will have built their own HQ right next door.

Terry Standing, deputy chief officer of the Fire and Rescue Service, said: "The centre is a first for the county and for the country, providing purpose-built accommodation for the three services under one roof.

"We are thrilled that His Royal Highness could be here.

"As a resident of Gloucestershire he will no doubt appreciate the benefits of a more co-ordinated approach between the emergency services."