Companies and consortia interested in the PFI design, build and maintenance of the community fire stations are now being invited to submit their detailed design proposals for the scheme.

A preferred bidder is then expected to be selected in January 2012, with construction starting on the new fire stations in autumn 2012.

The stations the Service is proposing to rebuild are; Burton-upon-Trent, Kinver, Lichfield, Leek, Stone, Chase Terrace, Rugeley, Codsall, Penkridge, Ashley and Longton.

Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive, Peter Dartford said: “We are absolutely delighted that we now have the approval for the rebuild of these fire stations reaffirmed. This is great news for both our staff and the communities who will benefit from these new facilities.

“We were confident that our business case for the project was strong and we have proven experience with our first PFI scheme of delivering to budget, however in these unprecedented economic times we could take nothing for granted.”

The £50m project initially received unconditional Treasury approval in March but the new coalition Government ordered a review of all PFI projects passed by the previous Government in 2010.

Chairman of the Fire and Rescue Authority, Cllr Len Bloomer said: “A significant amount of work and effort has already gone into this project, so we are pleased that it can progress as planned.

“In their current state these fire stations are proving costly to maintain and they no longer suit the requirements of the modern, proactive fire and rescue service we have in Staffordshire.  So to get this funding has been absolutely crucial.”

Outline planning approval has been received on all proposed stations.