CALNE Town Council has approved plans to relocate the police station in the council's offices in Bank House.

Councillors said the move from Silver Street to The Strand would help to combat petty crime, vandalism and anti-social behaviour in the town centre.

The proposals have been agreed in principle by both parties, but are now subject to final approval from the Wiltshire Police Authority. A decision is expected by the end of the month.

Mayor Tony Trotman said: "It's trying to make the most effective use of police officers we have in this area and to have the police station in the town centre would be fantastic."

Councillor Richard Stigwood said: "Initially I had reservations about moving the police station, but having seen the plans for the development of Bank House, which would make the police more accessible to the public, I now think it's a good idea."

Police chiefs said the station, which was built in the 1930s, is impractical for modern policing. They said it is too far out of town, and together with the adjoining police house, needs an upgrade.

In the last five years almost £82,000 has been spent keeping the station operational.

They admitted they have been looking for an alternative site in the centre for some years, and opened discussions with the town council about the possibility of sharing premises a year ago.

There was concern initially from council staff about personal security, and the possibility of having to deal with suspected offenders.

But the security issue has been dealt with in the plans by the inclusion of external and internal CCTV monitoring equipment, the installation of panic alarms and direct telephone links to police headquarters in Devizes.

Coun Trotman said: "I know there was some worry about staff safety, but we have carefully considered all the implications.

"If the plans are approved the police will have their own self-contained offices, a front enquiry desk and parking spaces."

The council is spending £10,000 on alteration to its offices.