A major £3 million revamped fire station at Stornoway has been officially opened.
Modern training facilities are now provided which avoids the need for many firefighters to travel to the mainland to upgrade their skills.
Personnel from Uist and Barra will only need one overnight stay compared to three at present.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) extensive 12-
It will also serve as a valuable community asset, providing a place for residents to meet and for the SFRS to engage with local partners.
Pat Watters said: “Today’s official opening marks the culmination of some serious effort to deliver a truly outstanding facility for our firefighters across the Western Isles – and they deserve no less.
“They are committed to their communities, responding at a moment’s notice to protect at times of emergency – and we are committed to them.
“We are committed to providing them with the modern resources and training required to keep standing on that front line and I commend their unwavering dedication, so very typical of firefighters.
“This building is not only bricks and mortar. It is a concrete symbol of our values, our drive and our determination to do the very best for our communities across the country as we continue to move forward as a truly world class fire and rescue service.”
Stornoway’s fire station, located in the heart of the historic town, was originally built in 1953 and later expanded in 1971.
The refurbished building will support the Western Isles’ 140 retained duty system firefighters.
It includes two brand new lecture rooms, one of which is available as a community room which supports the SFRS’ commitment to community planning, engagement and safety.
It’s the latest SFRS investment in the North. A 2016 partnership deal with Highlands & Islands Airport Limited brought a new fire training unit to Stornoway Airport for crews train in temperatures up to 600C and share expertise.
Chief Officer Hay said: “I am absolutely delighted to be here today for the official launch of this key facility which will undoubtedly enhance the service we provide to the Western Isles.
“I cannot emphasise enough the vitally important role of our retained crews -
“It is therefore right and proper that they are supported, trained and equipped to
meet emerging modern risks such as severe weather-
The refurbished fire station was officially opened by Pat Watters, chair of the SFRS board and Chief Officer Alasdair Hay (pictured).
£3 million fire station revamp opened
24 August 2017