Work starts on new fire station that ‘community will be proud of’

Thursday, 3 July 2025 16:08

By Chris Gee

Building work had started on a new fire station in Whitefield. Demolition at the site began in May to clear the old buildings at the Bury New Road site.

The new fire station is set to be complete by October 2026, with Whitefield’s firefighters currently working from a temporary station elsewhere on Bury New Road. The fire service said nearby neighbourhoods will receive the same level of cover while the work takes place.

The new stations are part of a £38m investment in fire stations, first approved in 2021. Whitefield is just one of the stations being rebuilt, with Blackley estimated to be up and running by November this year and construction of a new station in Stockport to start later this year.

The 16-year programme aims to modernise the service’s buildings.
Stations not rebuilt in the first phase of the programme are seeing other improvements, including new fitness and rest facilities for firefighters.

Dave Russel, chief fire officer for Greater Manchester said: “The beginning of construction on our second new-build community fire station is very exciting.
“These new fire stations will provide a positive and engaging presence in their local communities while giving our staff modern facilities.

“I am proud of all the work that has gone into our estates programme, building an estate that is fit for a modern Greater Manchester.” Kate Green, deputy mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “GMFRS has been making strong progress over recent years and the improvements to our estate will only solidify this and push us further forward.

“Our investment in our estate will create facilities the community can engage with and be proud of. “We’re determined that there won’t be any reduction in fire cover across Greater Manchester, and that’s why we’re investing in new stations and additional fire engines.

“Communities can be confident that there will no effect on the standard and level of service while these vital rebuilds take place.” Robertson took over as the lead construction contractor for building Blackley and Whitefield in March, after the previous contractor went into administration.

GMFRS said the process was completed thoroughly and without delay and construction is now back on track. Paul Coyle, commercial director, Robertson Construction North West, said: “Robertson has been involved in delivering projects for the blue light sector for many years across the UK.

“Working with GMFRS we will be providing a modern, high-quality facility which will enhance emergency response capabilities and meet the evolving needs of the community.”