Modernising Knutsford Fire Station
As part of Year Four in a five-year Procure Partnerships Framework (PPF), Knutsford Fire Station has undergone a major fit-out to support its transition from an on-call station to a day-shift duty facility.
The objective was to upgrade the operational, welfare, and training spaces while keeping the fire station live throughout the modernisation. This meant careful planning and coordination to ensure that fire crews had uninterrupted access to the appliance bay every day.
The modernisation included a full internal and external refurbishment of the existing fire station, designed to enhance the facility, prolong the life of the building, and bring it up to spec with other modernised fire stations.
A 30-square-metre gym extension was added to support firefighter health and fitness. Internally, welfare areas were fully upgraded, including new shower pods, a fully accessible toilet with new underground drainage, and a modernised kitchen with an adjoining community room. The community space is now bookable for meetings and events while also serving as a comfortable area for firefighters to use between calls.
Externally, all windows and doors were replaced with powder-coated aluminium systems to improve both durability and energy efficiency. The building also received new render, external decorations, and a full roof replacement. The roof was constructed with tapered PIR insulation, helping to improve thermal performance.
Standout features
One of the key features of the project was the addition of a new prefabricated training tower with advanced facilities.
Supplied and installed by Croften Engineering, the tower was delivered in sections on two trucks and assembled on-site using a crane over three working days. A pitched roof adaptation was also added.
The structure includes a dry riser for simulating water delivery to upper levels during training drills and supports realistic rope rescue exercises, making it a vital tool for firefighter training and readiness.
Sustainable features
Sustainability played a key role in the refurbishment. A new panel solar PV system was installed across the whole of the roof and now supports the station’s energy requirements. This is complemented by the addition of an EV charging port and LED lighting throughout the building, all contributing to the project’s Net Carbon-Zero features.
Insulation was built into the new roof structure to form a warm blanket, further reduce heat loss and improve the building’s environmental performance.
Snag-free delivery
Delivering the project without disruption to daily emergency service operations was one of the key challenges.
Our Smartspace team ensured that the fire engine could return to its bay each evening and that operational areas remained accessible at all times.
Despite these logistical challenges, the project was delivered snag-free, demonstrating strong site management and collaboration.
Our impact on the local community
Social value was embedded throughout the project. We had several of our production management trainees who gained hands-on experience on the first live site. Our team engaged local students at Adelaide Heath Academy through career talks, delivered community support at The Welcome Cafe with painting and minor repairs, and donated 19.05kg of food and household essentials to the Hope Central Food Bank.
In addition, the team supported a mock assessment day with The Warrington & Cheshire Pledge Partnership, helping local Year 13 students build their employability skills.
Recycling Lives was engaged to manage waste throughout the project, reinforcing a commitment to responsible construction practices and the circular economy.
The Knutsford Fire Station modernisation not only supports operational improvements for the fire service but also reflects a strong alignment with the client’s strategy for sustainable, modern, community-focused public infrastructure.
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