Ambulance service host steel signing ceremony for new facility in Dorset
The South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), in partnership with Stepnell, hosted a steel signing ceremony at the site of its new Dorset Main Operating Base (MOB) on Friday 25 July.
This new building is part of a wider, multi-year programme aimed at developing new infrastructure across the South West including a network of Main Operating Bases, Ambulance Stations, and Community Ambulance Points to support the Trust's expanding services and innovative working methods.
Andrew Rosser, Executive Director of Finance and Infrastructure at South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said: Establishing a new Main Operating Base in Dorset is a vital step in strengthening our service's presence and responsiveness within the community. This facility will enhance our operational capabilities, ensure faster support, and foster closer collaboration with local partners ultimately improving safety and service quality for everyone we serve
Construction of the MOB began in Spring 2025, led by Stepnell, with completion scheduled for this Autumn.
Rob Speirs, Regional Director at Stepnell, said: With extensive experience delivering healthcare infrastructure across the South West, we understand what it takes to build spaces that meet the complex needs of frontline services. Our work on this project ensures that ambulance crews have the right environment to effectively deliver emergency care for Dorset and wider communities.
This main operating base consolidates operations - making a real difference to the lives of people across the South West. The final build, alongside our robust social value delivery, will create substantial local spend and deliver further opportunities for the community, which will have a lasting impact for generations to come.
The introduction of MOBs has already proven successful in other UK ambulance trusts, and the Trust is confident this new facility will bring significant benefits to communities in Dorset. Staff will have access to modern training and welfare amenities, while clinical personnel will spend less time on non-clinical tasks, allowing them to focus more on patient care.
By ensuring resources are optimally placed and managed, the Trust is committed to delivering faster, more effective emergency care to the people of Dorset and beyond.
The Dorset MOB will consolidate all staff and vehicles currently based at Bournemouth and Wimborne Ambulance Stations, as well as operational teams from St Leonards. There will be no reduction in service during the transition to the new facility, ensuring seamless care for local communities