In response to the Government’s announcement last week that London’s new high-tech fire control centre will be located in Merton, Councillor Diane Neil Mills, Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration, said:

“I am delighted that Merton has been chosen as the ideal site for the new emergency call handling centre. We the Cabinet welcome this decision and fully support the high profile centre being built in Morden, subject to approval by Merton’s Planning Applications Committee.

“We have held a number of meetings with the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority and government officials over the last few months and so yesterday’s announcement is terrific news. I would take the opportunity to thank Merton council officers for all their hard work on this project.

“As well as contributing to a national network that will enhance the UK’s security, the location of the London Fire and Rescue Control Centre in Merton will bring substantial benefits to the local community, not least in providing valuable employment opportunities within the borough. It is estimated that a significant number of jobs could be created as a result.

“I look forward to the new control centre providing a very welcome boost to the council’s efforts to regenerate the local area.”

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Note to editors:

Merton Council is awaiting a detailed planning application which will require extensive consultation with neighbouring residents and businesses. Issues such as traffic implications, design of the centre, its location and the impact that the building and its use will have on the neighbourhood will also be examined.