Work continues on St Helens' new fire station but delays may be inbound

Work on £7 million station at unused land at Pilkington’s Watson Street site was originally planned to be finished by November this year.

A spokesman for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority said work is proceeding on the site, with construction workers following “strict guidance and government guidelines”.

They added that the fire authority is working with its construction partner, Wates, to “continuously to determine the impact of any potential delays to completion”.

“Construction is continuing on the site of the new St Helens Community Fire Station on Watson Street following strict guidance along with government guidelines,” the spokesman said.

“We are working closely with Wates to ensure the safety of all personnel on site and to determine the impact of any potential delays to completion.”

Back in June 2019, Ian Mullen, station manager for St Helens, told councillors the new fire station will provide the people of St Helens with the service they “rightly deserve.”.

Mr Mullen said two fire engines the “inefficient” Parr Stocks Road and Eccleston sites will be moved to the new stations.

A third fire engine will also be housed at the station, utilising standby staff in a new ‘hybrid’ model, which will also be put in place at Liverpool City and Wallasey.

The hybrid system combines elements of days, nights and retained duties whilst also maintaining immediate cover with at least one 24/7 fire engine.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority unanimously approved the plans last summer, which were put forward by Chief Fire Officer Phil Garrigan following a 12-week public consultation.

The changes will be funded by a reinvestment in the frontline of around £1 million through the use of current reserves combined with “robust debt repayment plans”.

The fire authority said the hybrid system will enable the service respond quickly and increase its resilience when dealing with large and prolonged incidents.