WORK on the city centre’s new state-of-the-art fire station is officially underway.
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) unveiled plans to replace its ageing station in July last year and construction has now started on the Great Western Business Park building.
The 1.2-acre site will include storage areas, offices and lecture rooms, five bays for vehicles and a training base, with space for the Young Firefighters Association.
Derek Prodger MBE, chairman of HWFRS, said: “Our current fire station in Copenhagen Street has served us well for the last 70 years but lacks modern training facilities and is no longer fit for purpose.
“This new facility will enhance our service to the people of Worcester and support the work of our firefighters.”
The work is set to be completed in January next year and means the service will be able to relocate from its existing base in Copenhagen Street.
Chief Fire Officer Mark Yates said: “The decision to build a new fire station in the current economic climate had to be carefully considered, but a new station for Worcester is vital if we are to provide a cost-effective and safe, fit-for-purpose location for our crews to work from.
“The building of this new station demonstrates our commitment to investing in the safety of the people who live in the city as well as our firefighters.”
The building is the first of several being put in place on the site as developers St Modwen were granted consent to construct six new warehouse and light industrial units last month.
Jonathan Green, development surveyor for St Modwen, added: “I am delighted the construction of the fire station is underway, kick-starting phase two of Great Western Business Park.
“The park is secure, centrally located and provides great opportunities for HWFRS to expand and continue to deliver its high quality service.”
