PLANS to install a new defibrillator in Wokingham town centre have moved a step closer after the Town Council launched a bid to purchase an old red telephone box.
The kiosk, outside the Post Office in Broad Street, has been designated as low usage by BT, who have removed the telephone equipment and are transferring ownership to the Town Council.
As the kiosk is a listed structure, planning permission to convert its use needs to be sought. Once granted, a defibrillator will be installed.
The Town Council said that the equipment is being donated by The Wokingham Community First Responders, who will also provide a vandal proof casing and offer 10-year maintenance.
The defibrillator will be simple to use and available to any member of the public who attends a medical emergency involving potentially life threatening cardiac conditions.
Councillor Mark Ashwell, chairman of the Amenities Committee, is pleased that the equipment is being installed.
He said: “‘Wokingham Town Council is delighted to be working in partnership with The Wokingham Community First Responders to provide this important piece of equipment, right in the heart of the town centre.
“In adopting the telephone kiosk we believe anyone trying to respond to an emergency will readily locate the defibrillator and by so doing offer lifesaving support to any individual who is suffering heart problems.”
