Willmott Dixon Interiors appointed to work on LFB HQ refurb project

The news emerges after proposals were developed late last year with the aim of delivering a refurbished and upgraded Grade II-listed building, bringing the space back into use as the Brigade’s new headquarters given that its current home (located at Union Street in Southwark) is due to close when the lease expires in March next year.

Key aspects of the original 1930s design will be preserved, while delivering a sustainable and modernised fire station. Alongside the main headquarters space, the location will play host to approximately 840 members of staff, ensuring that the Brigade can continue to serve London’s communities from this strategically important base.

Progressing design work

Willmott Dixon Interiors will be progressing design work to include the renewal of M&E and public health systems, the installation of new life safety systems, wholesale window replacement, re-roofing and re-cladding of the CMC building (the 1980s extension, formerly a Control Room). New passenger lifts, partitions, ceilings, joinery and finishes will be installed throughout, along with a full refurbishment of the appliance bays and basement area.

Located on the ground and second floors, the fire station will temporarily vacate during construction, which is expected to commence mid-2027. Provision will be made to maintain operational support for the nearby Lambeth River Fire Station on the Thames. There will be a new space for events and exhibitions on the ground floor.

Procured via the SCAPE construction framework, this project will see Willmott Dixon Interiors deliver social value through job creation, education and skills development, as well as environmental initiatives. The contractor will also engage with local SMEs through a Meet the Buyer event, the Greater London Authority’s new SME business mentoring programme, and by establishing an on-site Construction Skills Academy.

Once-in-a-generation project

Laura Birnbaum, assistant director of property and technical services at the LFB, said: “This is a once-in-a-generation project for the London Fire Brigade as we return to our historic headquarters in the heart of the capital. We are confident that partnering with such an experienced team will create a facility that supports our mission to serve and protect London for decades to come.”

Rob Brown, project director at Willmott Dixon Interiors, added: “It’s a privilege to work with London Fire Brigade and develop itd proposals into what will be a major refurbishment. We’re focused on designing a facility that’s fit-for-purpose, while respecting the building’s heritage and balancing the infrastructure and flexibility needed to support the Brigade’s vital work for years and generations to come. Our collaborative approach will ensure that we work closely with the London Fire Brigade and its stakeholders on a new home right in the centre of London.”

Mark Robinson, Group CEO at SCAPE, affirmed: “This significant refurbishment will deliver a more efficient and modern facility that strongly supports the London Fire Brigade in keeping local communities safe. Through the SCAPE construction framework, our teams will work closely with Willmott Dixon Interiors to achieve time and cost efficiencies from the start, while also identifying how to maximise social value throughout the project from job creation to sustainability. Our ambition is for this development to leave a lasting and sustainable legacy for the London Fire Brigade and the local community for years to come.”

Historical significance

The original building was opened by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1937. The LFB’s restoration will seek to retain as much of the original structure as possible, including the grand Art Deco frontage, in order to ensure the listed building retains its historical significance as the ‘home’ of the Brigade.

*Further information is available online at www.london-fire.co.uk and www.willmottdixoninteriors.co.uk