Ambulance Service officially opens new Main Operating Base in Dorset
The South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) has officially opened its new Main Operating Base (MOB) in Ferndown, Dorset, marking a significant milestone in the Trust's ongoing investment in modern facilities and enhanced patient care across the county.
The opening ceremony took place on Friday 20 March, with distinguished guests in attendance, including His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset and the High Sheriff of Dorset, alongside Trust leaders and partners.
The Ferndown MOB forms a key part of a multi-year infrastructure programme to modernise ambulance service facilities across the South West. The programme will deliver a network of strategically located Main Operating Bases, ambulance stations and Community Ambulance Points, supporting the Trust's growing services and more innovative ways of working.
Construction of the purpose-built facility began in Spring 2025, led by regional contractor, Stepnell. The new building includes modern office space, dedicated workshop areas for ambulance preparation and vehicle maintenance, and enhanced welfare facilities for staff.
The Dorset MOB will serve as a central hub for ambulance operations within the county. It brings together staff and vehicles previously based at Bournemouth and Wimborne Ambulance Stations, along with operational teams from St Leonards, into one integrated, multi-functional facility designed to improve efficiency and collaboration.
John Martin, Chief Executive at the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, said: "This new Main Operating Base represents an important investment in both our people and our patients. By providing modern workspace, welfare and operational facilities, we are ensuring our staff have the environment and support they need to deliver the very best care to the communities of Dorset.
"Bringing teams together under one roof will strengthen collaboration, improve operational efficiency and ultimately enhance patient outcomes. We are proud to see this investment become a reality and grateful to everyone who has supported its delivery."
Robert Speirs, Director at Stepnell, said: "Our team has extensive experience delivering healthcare infrastructure across the South West, and we understand the critical importance of facilities that meet the complex demands of frontline emergency services.
"By consolidating operations, this new base provides a layout designed to reduce pressures on frontline teams, allowing them to focus on what matters most - delivering high-quality patient care.
"Alongside creating a sustainable, future-ready facility, we have prioritised social value throughout the project, including providing local work experience opportunities. We are proud to have delivered a base that will serve both SWASFT and the wider Dorset community for many years to come."
Main Operating Bases have already demonstrated positive impact in other ambulance trusts across the UK, helping to streamline operations, improve staff wellbeing and support faster, more efficient emergency responses. The MOB in Ferndown is expected to deliver similar benefits by optimising resources, reducing unnecessary travel time and enabling clinical teams to spend more time focused on patient care.