Antrim Fire Station Officially Re-Opens

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service's Antrim Fire Station has officially re-opened following a £2.2 million refurbishment.

Work began in March of last year to update the Castle Street site, which was originally built in 1953, to transform the building into a modern day fire station enhancing firefighter and public safety.

Funding for the project was through capital investment provided by the Department of Health.

Key elements of the significant extension at the side and rear of the station included new welfare facilities for firefighters as well as bespoke kit rooms and cleaning facilities and the addition of a multi-use lecture and training space.

The station was re-opened by Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, who toured the building during his visit and met some of the wholetime (full-time) and on-call firefighters based there.

Minister Nesbitt said: "I am delighted to see the tremendous work that has been undertaken at Antrim Fire Station and having toured the facilities I cannot speak highly enough of the hard work, dedication and collaboration of all those involved in this refurbishment.

"The station has been modernised, upgraded and equipped to continue the vital work it has done since its inception in 1953. "This refurbishment is much more than a new coat of paint. It's about modernising our capacity to respond to the challenges of today. Whether it's battling more frequent wildfires, handling hazardous material incidents, or rescuing those in need, this fire station now stands ready to face whatever comes its way.

"This fire station is an example of what can be achieved when we collaborate on a shared mission and I can say with confidence that the efforts of all involved is plainly visible in the exceptional work I’ve seen today."

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service Chief Fire & Rescue Officer, Aidan Jennings, added: "This day holds particular importance for our wholetime and on-call firefighters, who have served the Antrim community with remarkable dedication.

"We extend a heartfelt thank you to each of them, along with our District Management and Administrative Teams for their continuous support. Their dedication and commitment to serving the community especially whilst renovation work was ongoing is commendable.

"Antrim Fire Station is a cornerstone of the local community, protecting and serving the local people. I would like to acknowledge the vital role played by the families of our firefighters, whose ongoing support is crucial, as well as the employers of our on-call firefighters in Antrim.

"We are immensely grateful to everyone who contributed to this project and to the local community for their continued trust and backing of their fire and rescue service. Together we are helping to make Northern Ireland a safer place for all."