POLICE officers on rapid response in Christchurch could be based at the town's fire station when the police station closes.

After the Barrack Road station closed to the public in March, questions over the ongoing police presence in Christchurch have been raised by councillors and residents groups.

The prime town centre site, which includes the old Magistrates Court, is owned by Dorset Police, Dorset County Council, Christchurch Borough Council and the Hospital of the Mary Magdalen Trust.

Agents marketed the site last year, seeking expressions of interest from potential buyers.

And in a meeting with ACRA, the Alliance of Christchurch Residents Associations earlier this month, Dorset's Police and Crime Commissioner, Martyn Underhill, said there had been 'a lot of interest' in acquiring the site.

He also told the chairman and secretary, Mike Collard and Jim Biggin, the force is exploring a move to the fire station on Fairmile Road as part of an increasing trend of police and fire services sharing buildings and other resources, he said.

Legislation enabling the furthering of initiatives such as this, is due to be passed by Government, he added.

Mr Biggin, who is also chairman of West Christchurch Residents Association, said the meeting with Mr Underhill, had reassured him.

"I thought that he was endeavouring to tackle the issues we put to him. There is obviously a lot happening in the background to prepare for the future", he added.

As well as potential plans for the rapid response team, Mr Underhill said the police station's CCTV centre could move to Christchurch Borough Council's Civic Offices in Bridge Street.

Ongoing discussions centre on the CCTV centre moving to the site, although a business case is currently being discussed to join all rural CCTV together.

Neil Farmer, strategic director at Christchurch council, said: “We are aware that the PCC has commissioned a report about future CCTV services in Christchurch and we await his findings.”

Mr Underhill said: “Christchurch Borough Council and Dorset County Council are seeking alternative uses to the Bargates Centre. We have consented to exploring alternative uses and opportunities on this site, and will consider all options open to us as part of our on-going review of our estate.”