Firefighters trained for floods, as new station opens
After over 80 years at Bethel Street, the fire service is moving to Martineau Lane.
The shift to the brand new station will take place in 2 weeks time.
With it, a new era for Fire and Rescue, including a swift water rescue boat to respond to flooding emergencies.
The final watch at Bethel Street will leave at 9am on 24th August, allowing the next shift to report to the brand new station near Trowse. The building, costing £4.5m, is built for a 21st century fire service, including a conference room which can be turned into a command suite within minutes.
The station will also serve as a base for the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust and will house a swift water rescue team to work on waterways and in flood rescue situations. Fire officers are undergoing specialist training to be able to man the craft. Station manager, Phil Berry, said: “It will become a Norwich, Norfolk and a national asset.”
Harry Humphrey, Cabinet Member for Community Protection, said: ”I believe the station will not only improve local emergency cover and give better access to the A47 but also provide immediate back-up for the city centre.” From the station, traffic lights can be controlled to turn them green, allowing firefighters fast access to emergencies.
The new building has been designed to be used by the local community as well, with plans for the local parish council to hold their meetings there.
An Open Day for members of the public is planned for later in the year.
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