AN ambulance base has been officially opened in the rural hinterland of Chester.

Located at Milton Green, just off the A41 - the main arterial route linking the northern and southern parts of the area - the new base comes into operation this month.

It replaces the old station in Tattenhall village a converted stables which had become an elderly people's home and then a private residence.

There was no room to expand or provide separate male and female changing and toilet facilities. It was not a disabled-friendly building and the steps into the kitchen were considered a health and safety risk.

The new station is at the former Cheshire County Council depot currently leased to several private firms. The Ambulance Service will take up occupancy at the front of the site in a disused bungalow.

Mersey Regional Ambulance Service said an intensive period of response trials indicated the site will provide enhanced access and egress for ambulances.

This will improve their ability to respond in the rural area reducing travel times by up to two minutes in each direction.

Judith White, is responsible for emergency ambulance operations in West Cheshire for Mersey Regional Ambulance Service NHS Trust.

She said: 'Changes around our original site in Tattenhall made it necessary to re-evaluate our operations in West Cheshire more than 12 months ago.

'Since then we have consulted with the community while identifying potential new bases. This hard work has now reached a climax as we finally open up our new premise in the area.'

Alan Murray, chief executive at Mersey Regional Ambulance Service NHS Trust, commented: 'The new ambulance base will ensure the ambulance service retains its visible presence within West Cheshire'

Councillor Moore Dutton said: 'I am delighted months of hard work have finally made this station a reality.

'This is a fantastic example of how the county council, the ambulance trust and parish councils can work together for the benefit of Cheshire's communities.

Being on the A41 the ambulance is in a prime position to respond to calls from the rural areas and my thanks go to all of the parish councils who have been involved and Mersey Ambulance for re-instating the service.'