Building sharing helps cost-cutting

HAMPSHIRE County Council has said the millions of pounds being saved by building-sharing schemes has proved the practice is the way forward in its cost-cutting strategy.

A report presented to the buildings, land and procurement panel states the council’s Workstyle programme has reduced office space by one third, cutting energy consumption and saving £2 million a year in running costs.

More than £13 million has been raised from the sale of buildings no longer fit for purpose.

Examples of the scheme in action include children and adults services staff sharing Rushmoor Borough Council’s offices in Farnborough.

The scheme is likely to be mirrored by Hampshire Constabulary, which is in the process of making arrangements that would allow Aldershot police station to be sold.

Aldershot library and the old town hall have been earmarked as potentialtial locations for police officers. Farnborough’s safer neighbourhood team will have a counter at Rushmoor Council offices.