After months of extensive refurbishment, East Sussex Fire Authority is delighted to formally re-open Preston Circus Community Fire Station today. This marks the completion of a once-in-a-generation investment to modernise and enhance one of East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s busiest fire station.
The historic building, which has been a cornerstone of the local firefighting service since 1901, has undergone a significant transformation to meet the needs of a modern fire and rescue service. The investment of £4.9 million has ensured that the station is now fully equipped to provide a better working environment for firefighters while continuing to serve the community of Brighton and Hove effectively.
A State-of-the-Art Facility for Firefighters and the Community
The upgrade includes crucial improvements, such as reducing the risk of contamination by providing enhanced decontamination facilities for firefighters returning from incidents, improved accommodations for staff, new and efficient heating systems to enhance sustainability, and an accessible community room to foster greater public engagement. The station’s landmark curved front has been carefully preserved, maintaining its iconic historical presence in Brighton.
Preston Circus: A Vital Community Asset
Chief Fire Officer Mark Matthews added:
“Preston Circus is our largest and busiest Station, serving the City of Brighton & Hove, whilst also providing support to other Stations across East Sussex. Two fire appliances and an Aerial Ladder Platform, which is our specialist vehicle used to support incidents and rescues from height, now operate from here at Preston Circus.
Last year Preston Circus attended 1,812 incidents, including 148 primary fires, 44 road traffic incidents, 126 fire safety checks, and 751 home safety visits. Over 280 hours were spent undertaking community activities.
A great deal of work has been carried out to ensure that this project not only brings about benefits for firefighters and staff who work at Preston Circus, but also represents value for money for the community. Above all, this is a community asset that serves the community.
We are therefore also delighted to be able to provide a community space as part of the refurbishment. This space provides an opportunity to work closer with our local neighbourhood groups and will undoubtedly support our prevention and community initiatives.”
This milestone represents not just an investment in infrastructure but also a commitment to the safety, well-being, and efficiency of our fire and rescue service.