WORK is under way to build a new fire station on the Headland at Hartlepool.

The new £830,000 Headland Fire Station will replace the existing 50-year-old building to meet the needs of a modern fire and rescue service.

The single-storey building will remain a retained operational fire station, housing one fire engine and delivering protection, prevention and an emergency response services to the Headland community.

The first step will be to demolish the existing building and a temporary station will be established on an adjacent car park until the new building is complete to ensure that there is no disruption to services.

Robbie Payne, Chair of Cleveland Fire Authority and ward councillor for Headland and Harbour on Hartlepool Borough Council, said, “I am delighted that work has started to create a new fire station for the Headland community.

“Lots of residents have participated in the consultation process and all of the comments received have helped to shape the new building which will be a great asset to the local community.

“Despite the ongoing financial pressures facing the Brigade it is absolutely vital that we continue to invest in facilities so that we can continue to provide high quality community safety and emergency response services.”

The Fire Authority’s Framework Contractor ISG has developed the design for the new station which is scheduled to be completed by the autumn.