Dingwall Fire Station

In 2024, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) launched an online survey to determine what the emergency service should look like in the future.  

SFRS Chief Officer Stuart Stevens stated that the service must adapt to meet evolving risks and address significant issues across its ageing estate. 

Nearly half of fire stations have been deemed in ‘poor’ or ‘bad’ condition, while two-thirds of the estate across Scotland is now more than 30 years old. Additionally, a significant number of fire stations lack provisions such as dedicated locker rooms, dignified facilities or sufficient showering areas.  

We want to be a modern service that is ready for the challenges of Scotland’s future. - SFRS Chief Officer, Stuart Stevens

Looking to address these challenges, SFRS partnered with Morgan Sindall Construction to upgrade four fire stations across Scotland.  Dingwall Fire Station was the second of four projects to handover successfully to SFRS.

Procured via the SCAPE Scotland framework, Morgan Sindall delivered Dingwall Fire Station on time, within budget, and with a post-construction client satisfaction score of 10/10.

Of equal importance, however, the fire station handed over without any disruption to live blue light operations. 

SCAPE's accelerated delivery model, coupled with Morgan Sindall's expertise in delivering blue light projects, now provides a successful blueprint for future locations.

Our work included the introduction of dignified facilities that allow for a clear separation between used and clean equipment, with designated areas for hanging used uniforms. These enhancements are designed to minimise unnecessary exposure to dirt and soot, thereby promoting the health and safety of our firefighters.

The scope of the project includes a comprehensive roof replacement over the accommodation block. Additionally, we implemented current contaminant control and decontamination policies, which necessitate thoughtful room configurations through partial refurbishment and extensions to the building. This accommodates the additional facilities outlined in the project, which include:

• Dedicated Drying Room
• Space for 20 half-height lockers in the hallway
• Gear Store capable of housing 20 lockers
• 4 Shower Pods
• Equipment Store
• Cleaners Store
• External boot wash and dirty store area
• Temporary accommodation for station use
• Provisions for business continuity throughout the duration of the works

These upgrades not only reflect our commitment to the well-being of our firefighters but also ensure that they have access to the necessary resources to perform their duties effectively and safely.