Construction begins on new Stockport fire station

Construction has begun on a new community fire station on King Street West in Stockport town centre, due to complete in Autumn 2026.

Demolition of the site began in August, clearing the way for construction to begin.

Firefighters are continuing their usual duties in and around Stockport Central’s station area, including prevention activities, school visits and training, with no reduction in the amount of fire engines or firefighters in the borough during the rebuild process and are temporarily working from neighbouring Whitehill Community Fire Station.

Upon reopening, the station will be renamed ‘Stockport Central Community Fire Station’, following feedback from crew members and local residents.

The new stations are part of a £51 million investment in Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service’s (GMFRS) estates, first approved in 2021.  Stockport Central is just one station being rebuilt across the city-region, with Blackley estimated to be up and running in late November this year, and Whitefield in autumn 2026.

Leader of Stockport Council, Cllr Mark Roberts, said: 

“It’s fantastic to see work beginning on this new community fire station here in Stockport. This development is an important investment in our town’s future and in the safety of local people. The new station will not only support our firefighters in the vital work they do, but will also stand as a visible sign of partnership between local services and our community – helping to make Stockport an even safer and stronger place for everyone.”

The start of construction for the site was marked by a ceremonial ‘spade in the ground’ event held on Tuesday, 28 October 2025 to celebrate the significant milestone.

Kate Green, Deputy Mayor for Safer and Stronger Communities, said:

“This investment in our estate is creating new facilities that the community can benefit from and be proud of. It is vitally important that there is no reduction in fire cover for Stockport during this rebuild, so it’s great that crews have been accommodated and able to carry out their duties from nearby Whitehill.

“Modernising our estate is a key part of our Fire Plan, ensuring it is fit for purpose and meets the needs of our workforce and the public.”

Sarah Nattrass, GMFRS Assistant Chief Fire Officer, said:

“It’s great to see construction on our third new-build community fire station getting underway. These new fire stations will provide a positive and engaging presence in their local communities while giving our staff the modern facilities they deserve.

“I am proud of all the work that has gone into our estates programme, building an estate that is fit for a modern Greater Manchester.”

The event featured a welcome from Stockport and Whitehill station manager, Carl Petch, followed by a speech from the deputy mayor and GMFRS Director of Corporate Support, Andrea Heffernan. The event was also attended by GMFRS colleagues, including the Assistant Chief Fire Officer Sarah Nattrass and crew from Stockport station, alongside staff from contractor Seddon and local councillors in the area who have been involved in the consultations and community engagement activities related to this project.

As part of its ongoing commitment to social value, contractor Seddon has generously donated £5,000 to The Fire Fighters Charity. This vital contribution will help provide specialist lifelong support for members of the UK fire services community, empowering individuals to achieve mental, physical and social wellbeing throughout their lives. Speaking about the donation, a spokesperson from Seddon said:

“We’re proud to support The Fire Fighters Charity and the incredible work it does for those who dedicate their lives to keeping our communities safe. Giving back is an important part of our values, and we hope this donation makes a real difference.”