Willmott Dixon Interiors have won the preconstruction contract for the refurbishment of London Fire Brigade’s headquarters, via the SCAPE construction framework
Opened in 1937 by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1937, the Art Deco style, Grade II listed building will benefit from modernisation to update energy efficiency and quality, whilst preserving as much of the original structure as possible.
Upon completion, the refurbished London Fire Brigade headquarters will serve as the base of operations for over 800 staff.
The London Fire Brigade headquarters refurbishment will include:
- The renewal of mechanical, electrical and public health systems,
- installation of new life safety systems,
- wholesale window replacement, re-roofing, and re-cladding of the 1980s extension CMC building,
- a full refurbishment of the appliance bays and basement area,
- new passenger lifts, partitions, ceilings, joinery and finishes installed throughout.
The ground to second floor fire station will temporarily vacate during works, due to start mid-2027, with provision to maintain operational support for the nearby Lambeth river fire station on the Thames.
Rob Brown, project director at Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “It is a privilege to work with London Fire Brigade to develop their proposals into what will be a major refurbishment of their previous, historic headquarters. We’re focused on designing a facility that is 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 we work closely with the London Fire Brigade and its stakeholders to bring them a new home right in the centre of London.”
The project will generate social value through local job creation and SME engagement
Willmott Dixon Interiors will meet with local SMEs at a Meet the Buyer event, as well as establishing an on-site construction skills academy.
Laura Birnbaum, assistant director of Property and Technical Services at LFB, said: “This is a once-in-a-generation project for 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.”
Mark Robinson, group chief executive at SCAPE, said: “This significant refurbishment will deliver a more efficient, 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 sustainable legacy for the Fire Brigade and local community for years to come.”
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