TWO council depots are set to be replaced by new facilities in a move that will cost taxpayers almost £2 million.

Civic chiefs are reviewing the future of the Totton and Lymington depots, both of which were built more than 30 years ago and are said to be outdated.

New council facilities in the two towns would involve the purchase of two or three acres of land.

With the price of industrial land running at between £450,000 and £650,000 an acre, the cost of replacing the depots is likely to total £1.8m.

But the urgent need for new facilities was spelled out at a meeting of the district council’s ruling Cabinet.

A report to members said that the Claymeadow depot in Hounsdown Avenue, Totton, was “well below ideal operational standards” as well as being close to homes and a school.

It added: “There is only one viable option and that is to acquire a new depot site within the Totton area.”

Describing the facility in Marsh Lane, Lymington, the report said: “The high occupancy levels and busy operational environment present a challenge in maintaining a safe working environment for all.

“As at Claymeadow, services would require a direct replacement within the same general location.”

The report also referred to the council’s other depot in Christchurch Road, Ringwood.

“Although usage has increased and is close to capacity it is currently believed to be manageable in the medium term,” it said. “The need for change at Ringwood is less than at the other two depots.”

Plans to find alternative sites for the Totton and Lymington yards were approved without debate.

The cost of two new depots is likely to be offset by the sale of the existing sites, especially if the land is used for housing.

Totton county councillor David Harrison said: “Claymeadow supports a number of council services but is best known for being the home of waste collection vehicles.

“There will be some who live nearby who would welcome them moving on.”