People in Southampton are invited to find out more about plans for a new fire station.
Details about the proposal to rebuild Redbridge Fire Station will be revealed when an online public consultation goes live from today (Tuesday February 1).
The new purpose-built facility will provide better working and training facilities for firefighters and support staff.
Ahead of the planning application, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) wants to share its vision for the new fire station with the local community.
This will also be a chance for people who live and work nearby to provide feedback on the scheme after viewing design drawings and site maps.
Chairman of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority, Councillor Rhydian Vaughan, said:
“Redbridge Fire Station is one of the oldest buildings owned by the Authority and costs to maintain and operate the site are increasing.
“This is an excellent opportunity to create a purpose-built fire station for firefighters and the local community.”
Alan Smedley, programme lead for contractor partner Morgan Sindall Construction, added:
“As well as providing a modern, fit for purpose new fire station for HIWFRS to ensure continued service for the local area, the project will promote a number of apprenticeship and job opportunities for local people, providing a positive legacy for the local community.”
As well as an appliance bay for three vehicles, the new three-storey station would feature separate clean and dirty zones for managing contamination, a dedicated gym for colleagues and improved training facilities.
The design also includes room for blue light partners – plus space for a retail unit to generate income.
Redbridge’s operational crew would stay on-site throughout building work, moving into a temporary facility to avoid any impact on response during construction.
The plans form an important part of the fire service’s ambitious Station Investment Programme.
Planning permission has already been granted for a new station in Bishop’s Waltham, with the town’s firefighters moving into a temporary home this month while building work is carried out at the site of the existing station in Lower Lane.
Meanwhile a planning application has been submitted to build a new station with offices, training tower and better facilities in Cosham, Portsmouth.
The public consultation for Redbridge – held online due to the ongoing Covid-19 situation – will run from Tuesday February 1 until Tuesday February 15.
Details can be viewed at redbridgefirestation.vailwilliams.com