A major refurbishment of Consett Community Fire Station has been completed, delivering modern, energy-efficient facilities that support frontline crews while significantly reducing the building’s carbon footprint.
The four-month project was delivered by Darlington-based 186 Property Solutions for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS), reinforcing the service’s commitment to providing safe, sustainable and fit-for-purpose environments for its teams.
It involved a full reconfiguration of the station’s internal layout and infrastructure to improve operational efficiency and staff welfare. New shower facilities were installed alongside an expanded gym, drying room and briefing room, while lockers were relocated from corridors into a dedicated area to improve accessibility and safety. Staff welfare spaces and offices were also fully remodelled to better support the demands of a 24/7 operational service.
Significant improvements were also made to the building’s fabric and services, including the installation of triple-glazed windows, composite doors, a new energy-efficient heating system, upgraded electrics and LED lighting. The works also included reinsulating the loft void, fitting suspended ceilings and new flooring, and carrying out a full programme of internal and external redecoration.
Importantly, the refurbishment was delivered while the station remained fully operational. Fire crews and support staff were temporarily accommodated in five fully serviced buildings installed in the station’s car park by 186 Property Solutions, while the fire engine bays were largely unaffected apart from floor painting, ensuring emergency response capabilities were maintained throughout.
Keith Lazzari, Director of Corporate Resources at CDDFRS, said: “The refurbished station has created a safer, more comfortable and energy-efficient working environment for our brilliant firefighters and service staff.
“The work was completed without compromising our ability to respond to emergencies, which was a key priority throughout. We have had great feedback from our crews who are based at the station 24/7 protecting our communities.”
Tom Sowerby, Contracts Manager at 186 Property Solutions, added: “We’re proud to have completed this refurbishment which delivers high-quality improvements that will benefit both staff and the wider community for years to come. Careful planning and close collaboration with CDDFRS allowed the station to remain operational throughout.”
The Consett project marks the second scheme delivered by 186 Property Solutions for CDDFRS, following its refurbishment of Middleton-in-Teesdale Fire Station, where works included upgraded flooring, lighting, WCs and showers, alongside full internal decoration.
