MILFORD Haven coastguard centre is to become part of a new national network for the first time this week, enabling it to take emergency calls from across the UK.

Work has been carried out at the search and rescue coordination centre to upgrade the technology, so that it can be connected to National Maritime Operations Centre (NMOC) in Hampshire and other stations across the country.

Carl Evans, maritime operations controller at Milford Haven Coastguard Operations Centre (CGOC) said being part of the network will mean connected stations can offer each other support during busy periods.

“Before, when we had work, whether winter or summer, we had the same resources available,” said Mr Evans.

“What we’re able to do now is portion that workforce much more evenly to smooth out the peaks and troughs.

“It will help us match man-power with the workload.”

At present, around 85 per cent of the calls handled in Milford Haven happen during July and August, when the waterway is busiest.

As part of the new network, the centre can ask for help from coastguards across the county, who will instantly be able to see all of the same information available to local staff.

None of the 23 jobs at Milford Haven CGOC will be lost by joining the network, and Mr Evans emphasised that the changes would not be affecting how rescue teams were despatched.

“There will still be the same number of lifeboats, coastguard rescue teams, helicopters and other rescue resources,” he said.

In December 2010, Milford Haven CGOC was earmarked for closure by the UK Government.

But following a robust campaign from local people, politicians, and the media - and a petition signed by 20,000 people - it was given a reprieve.

However, as part of the latest changes, six UK coastguard stations are closing, including Swansea, which closes in March this year.

Mark Harrington, staff officer for vessel traffic monitoring said the new system meant staff would be able to see what is going on all around the Welsh coast, and may even be able to predict incidents before they have happened.

“This won’t always stop an incident happening, but it lets us know earlier so we can help,” he said.

Stephen Crabb MP said the modernisation of the service was “long overdue”, adding: “I am pleased that the station here in Milford Haven will be fully supported to continue its vital role in the future.”

The new network is scheduled to be fully operational cross all centre by the end of 2015.