PRINCE Charles is to open the new Dorset Fire and Rescue Service headquarters in Dorchester.

He will perform the honours at the new complex in Peverell Avenue West, Pound-bury, on March 24.

David Fox, chairman of Dorset Fire Authority, said: “Dorset Fire Authority is committed to providing Dorset, Bournemouth and Poole with the best level of service possible and this new headquarters is a substantial aid towards fulfilling that objective. “The fact that our new headquarters is built on Duchy land makes it particularly appropriate that HRH has found time in his busy programme to formally open the building and Dorchester Fire Station. “Needless to say, we very much look forward to welcoming him.”

Prince Charles will be taken on a tour of the facilities and speak with crews and staff. He will also unveil a plaque to commemorate the occasion.

Chief fire officer Darran Gunter said: “The new headquarters and fire station represents the culmination of a partnership between Dorset Fire and Rescue Service, Dorset Police, PFI partner PFF and several government departments which has provided new, state of the art fire stations and facilities to protect and serve the communities of Dorset.

“We are rightly proud of what has been achieved and as the chairman says, we are all very much looking forward to this memorable occasion.”

The building is situated at the Monkey’s Jump roundabout end of the development, near the bypass. Prince Charles regularly calls into the development to see the latest progress and new plans.