Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) submitted its planning application for the new Telford Central Fire Station this month. (March)
The final design is based upon the most popular concept chosen by Shropshire residents with some improvements.
The changes also result in a more cost-effective build by reducing engineering costs and making best use of the existing infrastructure around aspects such as drainage.
The overall theme of a modern, transparent building with clean lines that’s accessible to the public remains, and an improved corner feature creates a strong focal point.
The exterior will be glass and ‘polar’ white, red and grey cladding that was inspired by the designs on existing Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service vehicles.
Chief Fire Officer, Rod Hammerton said: “The final design combines the best use of the existing structure, balanced carefully against cost and functionality.
“I’m delighted with the final concept - it’s a huge improvement on the existing structure built in the 1980s.
“Our primary goal is for an operationally sound fire station that allows us to work closely with other emergency services such as police and ambulance. With Shropshire residents’ help we have designed something that will become a focal point for the public we strive to protect.”
Operational areas such as the fire station itself will be upgraded and training facilities for SFRS and West Mercia Police will also be created along with a state-of the-art control room. This will provide the service with more capability and mean it is better equipped to meet new challenges.
It will also be the first time Shropshire will have its own multi-agency incident facility that will link directly with Police headquarters in the event of a major incident.
The building will also a house 24-hour accommodation including dining and study areas plus a conference facility for up to 50 people.
There will also be a new fitness suite that will support firefighter’s fitness needs for endurance and strength that are essential to the role.
Chair of the Fire and Rescue Authority, Councillor Eric Carter said: “As an authority we have close links with communities throughout Shropshire and have a vested interest to make sure this building delivers not only value for money but also a facility that is fit for the residents it protects.
“We all agree on the design and look forward to Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service continuing to take great strides towards partnership working.”
Telford Central station was built in the 1980s and needs significant modernisation including reroofing, window replacement and internal modernisation. The new station will also be better equipped to support the welfare of the workforce around cleanliness and decontamination.
The final cost of the building will be dependent upon the tender process.
Initial designs reached more than 11,000 people on social media where nearly 500 people voted for their preferred option last December.
