Plan to demolish fire station given unanimous approval

Councillors have voted that Bath Fire Station can be demolished so a new fire station can be built in its place.

- John Wimperis Local democracy reporter johnwimperis@reachplccom

Campaigners had called for the beautiful 1930s building to be saved. Believed to be the last classical building in Bath before the onset of postwar modernism, the government is in the process of reviewing whether the fire station should be Grade II listed.

The government will not have long to make up its mind.

Bath and North East Somerset Council's planning committee voted unanimously yesterday (Wednesday) to approve Avon Fire and Rescue Service's plans to knock down the fire station and build a “21st century” facility in its place.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Luke Gazzard told the planning committee: “The existing station on Bathwick Street has served the city well since 1938 but is no longer fit for purpose. It does not meet the standards of safety, accessibility, environmental performance, and staff wellbeing that the modern fire and rescue service requires, while the construction is unsound.”

The appliance bay doors are not wide enough for modern fire engines, which compromises response times and safety.

Meanwhile, the water response vehicle has to be stored in a separate office around the back.

The planning application said: “Vehicles frequently strike the sides of the building.”