Police and firefighters join forces at new Shirebrook station

In June 2019 building work began to adapt Shirebrook fire station to accommodate colleagues from Derbyshire police as part of the ongoing blue light collaboration to deliver efficiencies and better outcomes for the communities of Derbyshire.

Shirebrook fire and police station is the latest colocation site for Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service, sharing 8 sites with East Midlands Ambulance Service and 6 co-location sites, including a joint training centre and headquarters with Derbyshire Constabulary. A further fire and police co-location site at Long Eaton is scheduled to be completed in September 2020 following a temporary suspension in work due to Covid-19.

An official opening of Shirebrook fire and police station will be scheduled for later in the year when restrictions relating to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic allow.

Speaking from Shirebrook fire and police station, Area Manager Rob Taylor said: “The addition of Shirebrook station as a co-location fire and police station is a further example of the ongoing collaboration between both organisations as we work to make Derbyshire safer together.

“Co-location not only delivers efficiency savings, but it also allows us to build on each other’s strengths by sharing and exchanging information in many areas including arson reduction and road safety, all leading to improved public safety.

“The completion of this project is testament to the joint police and fire property team who have worked with contractors to bring the project to completion.

“Credit also goes to the firefighters and police officers who will be welcoming their new emergency service colleagues under different circumstances as they adapt to and work in line with government social distance guidance.”

Inspector Rob Bowns, who is in charge of policing in the area, said: “This will provide yet another fantastic opportunity for a collaborative approach and closer partnership working with the fire service, which mirrors our approach in other parts of the county, as well as our headquarters in Ripley.

“Sharing the space at Shirebrook fire and police station will enable my officers to continue to be on the beat within the heart of the community, dealing with issues that matter to local people.”