Bath Fire Station has officially closed its doors after nearly 90 years of service, making way for a modern rebuild to better serve the community. On February 26, firefighters held a poignant farewell as fire engines and emergency vehicles lined up outside the historic station near Cleveland Bridge, sounding sirens before departing one by one for the last time.
For the next 18 months, Bath’s fire crews will operate from a temporary facility on Roseberry Road in Twerton, just off Lower Bristol Road. A spokesperson for Avon Fire and Rescue Service confirmed, “The original Bath Fire Station is undergoing a complete redevelopment and is expected to reopen by summer 2027. Meanwhile, the temporary station is fully operational and continues to provide emergency response across the city. Residents should continue to call 999 in emergencies.”
The 1930s fire station, designed by pioneering female architect Molly Gerrard and completed in 1938, has faced structural challenges over the years. Its bays are too narrow for modern fire engines, often causing damage to the building’s sides, while ground movement and water damage have further compromised its integrity. Despite efforts from heritage groups like the Twentieth Century Society and Historic England to secure Grade II listing status, the government declined the application, citing insufficient special significance.
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Local council officers emphasized that public safety and emergency service needs must take precedence over preserving the aging structure. Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning committee unanimously approved demolition and reconstruction plans in November. Councilor Toby Simon acknowledged the loss but stressed the necessity: “While it is sad to lose the existing station, it’s in poor structural condition and doesn’t meet current fire service requirements.”
The new fire station will feature six wider and taller appliance bays—up from five—alongside essential decontamination facilities and improved welfare spaces for firefighters. Heritage elements from the original building will be carefully preserved: the iconic fireman’s pole will be reinstated in the new design, and the station’s crest will be prominently displayed at the entrance.
Relocating the fire station to another site is not feasible, as on-call firefighters are mandated to live within a five-minute drive of the station. Moving would require disrupting the current team of 14 or recruiting new personnel.
This redevelopment marks a significant step forward in ensuring Bath’s fire services remain effective and up to modern standards while respecting the city’s heritage where possible.