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The South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) has marked a major step forward in its expansion plans with a steel signing ceremony for its new Dorset Main Operating Base (MOB).
The event, held on 25 July, celebrated progress on the facility, which is being built in partnership with construction company Stepnell.
Part of a multi-year programme to upgrade ambulance infrastructure across the South West, the Dorset MOB will join a network of Main Operating Bases, Ambulance Stations, and Community Ambulance Points designed to support the Trust’s growing services and modern ways of working.
Andrew Rosser, Executive Director of Finance and Infrastructure at SWASFT, said the new base would play a key role in strengthening the service’s presence and responsiveness: “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 began in spring 2025 and is scheduled for completion this autumn. Rob Speirs, Regional Director at Stepnell, said the facility had been designed with the unique needs of ambulance crews in mind. “Our work on this project ensures ambulance crews have the right environment to deliver emergency care effectively. The final build, alongside our robust social value commitments, will bring lasting benefits to the community,” he said.
The Dorset MOB will consolidate operations from Bournemouth and Wimborne Ambulance Stations, along with operational teams from St Leonards. The Trust has confirmed there will be no reduction in service during the transition.
The facility will include modern training and welfare amenities, enabling clinical personnel to focus more on patient care by reducing time spent on non-clinical tasks. The Trust says strategic placement of resources will support faster and more effective emergency responses.
MOBs have already been successfully implemented in other UK ambulance trusts, delivering operational efficiencies and better patient outcomes. SWASFT expects the Dorset site to bring similar benefits to communities across the county and beyond.
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