POLICE officers have moved into a new base in Newton Aycliffe as they begin to share facilities at the town’s fire station.

Newton Aycliffe Police moved from the town centre in 2011 when the force’s Central Parade station was deemed unfit for purpose.

The officers moved to Parsons Court, on Aycliffe Business Estate, leading to complaints from residents who wanted a police presence in the town centre.

This week (Wednesday, December 11) the police moved into County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Authority’s Newton Aycliffe station.

It is next to the old Central Parade station and it is believed that the link up is one of the first nationally.

Ron Hogg, Police and Crime Commissioner for Durham Constabulary, said: “This is great news for the public of Newton Aycliffe.

“Not only are we giving them a town centre presence which they want, we are also saving money compared to the cost of renting on the industrial estate out of town.”

The fire service will continue to provide a full operational service from the station. The police section will be open between 10am and 5pm Monday to Friday.

Michelle Hodgson, chairman of County Durham and Darlington Combined Fire Authority, said: “The sharing of the fire station makes operational and economic sense.

“Our police colleagues approached us to see whether we could assist them in providing a town centre presence.

“We already share buildings with the ambulance service across the county. This is a great opportunity to work more closely with our police colleagues.”