COUNCILLORS were given a VIP tour of Bury’s new community fire station, just days before it opened.

From noon tomorrow, crews will be mobilised from the new base at Chamberhall Business Park.

Last Friday, members of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority were shown around the £1.8 million development to see the facilities, which include a gym, double drill tower for training, sensory garden and a community room which can be used by local groups.

There is also a caged soccer facility which will be taken out to youngsters in the community and run by operational staff who are fully trained football coaches. The station, built by Kier Northern, has also been accredited as one of the most environmentally sustainable buildings in Bury and one of the most energy efficient fire stations in the country. Cllr Alan Matthews said: “I think the new station is marvellous and really puts the community at the heart of the station. Now the public will have the chance to get involved with their local firefighters and the station, especially young people and I think that’s important because, hopefully, it will help to bring down anti-social behaviour and attacks on firefighters.”