Our new West Norwood fire station on Knight’s Hill was officially opened today (25 November) by Fire Minister Penny Mordaunt MP. It replaces the old fire station on Norwood Road.
Built by Willmott Dixon, our new £5 million state-of-the-art building provides a modern working environment for crews, room for three fire engines and training facilities including a drill yard and training tower. We have situated the training facilities away from the residential area to minimise noise.
London Fire Brigade Commissioner Ron Dobson said:
“This brand new fire station is good news for the community. The old West Norwood fire station has served residents well for 100 years but it no longer meets the demands of a modern fire and rescue service. The new station on Knight’s Hill will provide us with facilities fit for the 21st century. It reinforces our commitment to providing the best possible service to Londoners.”
Fire Minister Penny Mordaunt added:
“This new station is a great achievement, not just for London Fire Brigade, but the community it serves. What I have seen here today has been immensely impressive. I am particularly pleased to see how this new building will not only house and train firefighters, but also provides facilities for the local community to benefit from, and shows just how important prevention has become in the work of the modern fire service.”
Our new station’s design means the building:
• naturally regulate its temperature using as little energy as possible
• provides for the maximum amount of natural light into all spaces
• draws energy for power and heating from renewable sources including solar panels
• reduces energy and water demands, cutting running costs and contributing to our overall environmental performance.
Willmott Dixon Project Director Adam Morrall said:
“Willmott Dixon is extremely proud of the working relationship built with the Brigade in delivering this flagship project within the agreed budget and on time.
“The management of the project meant minimal impact on the local community; with involvement in the build process and now with the facilities within the building will result in a true community facility for years to come. The Brigade’s feedback is that the building’s quality is exceptional and ensures that the legacy Willmott Dixon has left is one we can all be proud of.”
Building began in August 2013 and was completed in October.