Bath’s firefighters expressed their gratitude following the unanimous approval by Bath and North East Somerset Council to build a new fire station, replacing the current one dating back to the 1930s.
The decision, made on November 19 by the council’s planning committee, will see the historic Bath Fire Station demolished to make way for a modern, energy-efficient facility that better meets the needs of today’s emergency services.
While Historic England and the Twentieth Century Society campaigned to preserve the original building—highlighting its architectural significance as a rare design by female architect Molly Gerrard and its resilience during the Bath Blitz of 1942—the committee prioritized the practical benefits of an updated station. Despite efforts to secure a Grade II listing, the government initially declined to list the building, a decision now under review.
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Assistant Chief Fire Officer Luke Gazzard emphasized the necessity of the new station. “Our 2016 strategic review identified urgent needs for investment at Bath Station. The new facility will provide improved response capabilities, sustainability, lower long-term costs, and a modern working environment that our staff deserve,” he said.
The existing fire station suffers from structural issues including cracking walls caused by ground movement, water damage, and outdated facilities that do not accommodate modern fire engines adequately. Its appliance bay doors are too narrow, frequently resulting in vehicle damage, and the station’s iconic drill tower is also structurally compromised. Additionally, important vehicles, like the water response unit, must be stored offsite due to space constraints.
Council members acknowledged the building’s heritage value but recognized that public safety and operational efficiency must take precedence. Planning committee member Eleanor Jackson reflected, “While this was a state-of-the-art building in 1938, we must adapt to contemporary standards to support the critical work of our firefighters.”
Construction is slated to begin in early 2026 and will last approximately 18 months, with crews operating temporarily from Roseberry Place on Lower Bristol Road. The new station will expand from five to six appliance bays with larger and taller doors, feature decontamination facilities, and include enhanced welfare spaces such as private counseling areas, wellbeing zones, and a gym to support firefighters' physical and mental health.
Significantly, some elements of the historic station will be preserved and incorporated into the new design, including the original fireman’s pole and the building’s facade crest, which will be prominently displayed at the new station’s entrance.
The council’s planning officers concluded that while the old station holds heritage interest, the operational needs of the emergency services and the wider public safety responsibilities outweigh the loss. The new Bath Fire Station aims to set a benchmark for sustainability and operational excellence, ensuring firefighters are equipped for the challenges of modern firefighting while honoring the city’s history.