A long-awaited plan to move Mitcham fire station to new “21st century facilities” will be on display next week.

A planning application will be submitted to Merton Council in July to move the current station, next to Vestry Hall in London Road, to new premises nearby built by a private company.

Before then, a public consultation is taking place including an exhibition of the plans, where residents will have the chance to quiz fire brigade bosses and Blue 3, the consortium that will build and maintain the new building for the next 25 years.

A London Fire Brigade spokesman said: “The plans for the rebuilt fire station include state of the art facilities for fire crews, with room for modern fire appliances and training.

“The new station will also be kitted out with a community space that will allow members of the public to easily access vital life saving fire safety advice.

Firefighters have welcomed the improved facilities but some have raised concerns about the Private Finance Initiative contract with Blue 3 – part of a £57m London-wide scheme to provide nine new stations across London.

Residents can view the plans at the Vestry Hall, 336-8 London Road, Mitcham, CR4 3UD, on Friday, June 8, 10am-12pm and 5.30-7.30pm.

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