Work begins on Newark's new fire station

Demolition work has started at Newark Fire Station.

It marks the start of a 12-month construction process, with the red brick buildings to the left of the station’s appliance bay taken down to make way for a new station and training tower.

The service obtained planning permission to re-build the station towards the end of last year. The project will cost just over £3.1m.

Contractors moved onto the site last Monday to install perimeter fencing before starting demolition work on Wednesday.

The current station will remain fully operational during the work, which is being carried out by The Gelder Group.

“We’re really pleased that our appointed contractor has now moved onto the site and started work on the project,” said Ian Pritchard, Nottinghamshire Fire And Rescue Service’s head of procurement and resources and the project lead.

“They haven’t wasted any time in getting to work and will be continuing to progress the demolition over the course of the next few weeks.

“Once this is done, we will be entering the build stage of the project – which we hope will be completed early next year.”

Newark Station Manager Mr Seth Armstrong said: “The current Newark Fire Station is more than 50 years old and, whilst we will all be sad to see it go, we’re very much looking forward to having a new home that will hopefully continue to serve the people of Newark for years to come – just as the current station has.

“As well as housing our two fires engines, which are crewed by both wholetime and retained staff, the new station will also house our technical rescue unit and is a clear sign of the service’s commitment to keeping Newark, and the surrounding areas, as safe as possible.”