Fire service opens new training centre

A state-of-the-art fire training centre has opened in Reading, replacing a previous facility damaged by flooding in 2022.

The Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) officially unveiled its new Learning and Development Centre in Whitley Wood on Friday.

The modular building - constructed offsite and installed in just four days - features solar panels, LED lighting and electric vehicle charging points.

RBFRS chief fire officer Wayne Bowcock said the centre was "befitting of a modern fire and rescue service" and would help staff "effectively serve the people of Berkshire."

The facility is designed to host realistic training scenarios.

Mayor of Reading Alice Mpofu-Coles, local MP Yuan Yang and councillors from across the county joined for the opening celebration for the new facility.

Councillor and chair of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority Jeff Brooks said he was "very pleased" with the new centre.

"This fantastic new facility represents a significant investment by the Fire Authority into our staff and will help prepare the Service to meet the changing needs of communities across Berkshire for years to come," he said.

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