DORCHESTER is leading the way with the development of a new generation of fire stations, according to a Government minister.

Work is progressing on the county town's new fire station at Poundbury.

But the design and the development of the station has already been praised by fire minister Parmjit Dhanda, who highlighted the Dorchester scheme as the Government unveiled its vision for a new generation of open, accessible, inviting and environmentally friendly fire stations.

Mr Dhanda said it was hoped that better design like that being offered in Dorchester would create fire stations where communities can come together socially and crucially hear key fire safety advice.

He said: "The fire and rescue service needs buildings that meet the challenges of today and the future and that allow it to do the best job possible.

"Firefighters' first job will always be fighting fire but stations can also play a greater role in promoting good community relations by opening up to them and putting a greater emphasis on prevention by increasing education about fire safety. Many of our traditional fire stations are magnificent buildings that are an important piece of the architectural landscape and play an important part in local communities.

"But we want to add to the range of buildings and facilities that the fire and rescue services have at their disposal."

The new Dorchester station is one of two currently being developed in Dorset by the Dorset Fire and Rescue Service.

Paul Gale, area director of construction company Morgan Ashurst, said when work started on the scheme that it has been designed to reflect the style of Poundbury.

The Poundbury project is due to be completed in September 2008.

The work is part of a private finance initiative project worth £46 million.

As well as the new Poundbury scheme a new divisional headquarters for Dorset Police and Dorset Fire and Rescue Service is being built at Wimborne Road, Poole.

A new fire station to be built at Marshes End, Poole, is also part of the plan.