Spades in the ground for new community fire station in Whitefield
- Construction has officially started on Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service’s latest community fire station rebuild in Whitefield
- New fire station is expected to be completed by October 2026
- This is part of £38 million estates investment approved in 2021, with three new fire stations built on the existing sites of current stations
Construction has officially begun for the new community fire station in Whitefield. Spades are now in the ground for the Bury New Road site which will deliver a modern fire station for the community and beyond.
Demolition of the site began in May, clearing the way for construction to now begin. The new fire station is set to be complete by October 2026, with Whitefield’s firefighters working from a temporary station on Bury New Road, so the community will receive the same level of cover while the work takes place.
The new stations are part of a £38m investment in our estates, first approved in 2021. Whitefield is just one of the stations being rebuilt, with Blackley estimated to be up and running by November this year and construction of a new community station in Stockport to start later this year.
The new stations will include sustainable heating and lighting systems to support Greater Manchester's target to become a carbon neutral city-region by 2038.
The 16-year programme aims to modernise our buildings and invest in what matters most – our people, our communities, and our future. Stations not rebuilt in the first phase of the programme are seeing other improvements, such as new fitness and rest facilities for firefighters.
Dave Russel, Chief Fire Officer, said:
“The beginning of construction on our second new-build community fire station is very exciting. These new fire stations will provide a positive and engaging presence in their local communities while giving our staff modern facilities.
“I am proud of all the work that has gone into our estates programme, building an estate that is fit for a modern Greater Manchester.”
Kate Green, Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester for Safer and Stronger Communities, said:
“GMFRS has been making strong progress over recent years and the improvements to our estate will only solidify this and push us further forward.
“Our investment in our estate will create facilities the community can engage with and be proud of. We’re determined that there won’t be any reduction in fire cover across Greater Manchester, and that’s why we’re investing in new stations and additional fire engines. Communities can be confident that there will no effect on the standard and level of service while these vital rebuilds take place.”
Robertson took over as the lead construction contractor for building Blackley and Whitefield in March, after the previous contractor went into administration. This process was completed thoroughly and without delay and construction is now back on track.
Paul Coyle, Commercial Director, Robertson Construction North West, said:
“Robertson has been involved in delivering projects for the blue light sector for many years across the UK. Working with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service we will be providing a modern, high-quality facility which will enhance emergency response capabilities and meet the evolving needs of the community.
“Using modern construction techniques designed to improve efficiency, quality and sustainability, we will be contributing to Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service’s Estates Improvement Programme and the region’s ambition to become a carbon neutral city-region by 2038. We will also extend our work further into the community, as a responsible contractor, we are committed to creating community wealth through the provision of local employment opportunities, supporting skills development and local engagement.”
Article Published: 30/06/2025 13:39 PM