Much Wenlock’s new-look £400,000 fire station ready for action
Around 40 people gathered to mark the official opening of Much Wenlock’s new £400,000 fire station.
Completely revamped, fire bosses said it is now a proper 21st century facility.
Councillor Eric Carter, chairman of the Fire Authority, said: “It is a fantastic refurbishment. It’s been gutted inside, modernised and it has a conference room which can be shared with the community.
“If you see a photograph of that building now and then look at how it looks on Google Maps, you wouldn’t recognise it.
“It’s a wonderful 21st century fire station. All the staff are really pleased with what’s been done. It is just first class.”
Councillor David Turner, who represents Much Wenlock on Shropshire Council, said: “This building has not only served a practical purpose for many years, but is also a monument to local volunteers’ dedication and bravery.
“The fire and rescue service in Much Wenlock, as it is in many other small towns and large villages in rural Shropshire, is manned entirely by retained firefighters.
“These brave men and women are dedicated to turn out at a moment’s notice in all conditions, frequently not knowing the full extent of what will confront them when they reach the incident. We value their service beyond measure, and this community should do all we can to ensure that new local recruits are forthcoming, who can be trained to join in keeping us safe.”
Councillor Turner said the new fire station would be fit for the community for many years to come.
“The building itself was becoming increasingly less fit for its 21st century purpose,” he said.
“So, after significant investment by the fire authority in an extension, including a lecture room, watch room and kitchen, we now have modern facilities that will stand our local firefighters in good stead for many years to come.”