New fire service training centre given go-ahead

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service has been granted planning permission to build a new training centre in Billesdon.

Harborough District Council's planning committee unanimously approved proposals to redevelop the site of a former Leicestershire County Council highways depot off Gaulby Road.

According to the fire and rescue service, the £14m project will include a multi-storey fire behaviour unit for various training exercises, an animal rescue area and a mock motorway.

Chief fire officer Callum Faint said at the meeting on Tuesday that it was a "once-in-a generation opportunity" for the service and a "strategic investment in public safety".

Leicestershire County Council leader Dan Harrison described the approval as "really good news".

"The brownfield site it will be built on was surplus to our requirements and it's great to see the land being put to good use," he said.

"Not only will it benefit residents across Leicestershire but the £1.7m sale means we can put these funds towards providing vital services."

Mr Faint said work to clear the site was earmarked to begin early next year.

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