A refurbishment of Brighton's Preston Circus Community Fire Station, led by Morgan Sindall Construction, has been completed and celebrated with a re-opening event.

The event brought together representatives from Morgan Sindall’s Southern Home Counties division, current and former staff from East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, Brighton and Hove County Council, SCAPE, and local community members to mark the project's successful completion.

The refurbishment, which was commissioned by East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, aimed to modernise the station's facilities while preserving its historic charm. Built in 1938, the station is a beloved part of the local community and has a long legacy of serving the people of Brighton. Morgan Sindall worked closely with the SCAPE framework to deliver the project efficiently, allowing for early contractor engagement and fostering a collaborative approach from the outset.

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Key upgrades to the station included the installation of new MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) services, compliance with modern regulations, and the addition of a new kitchen, decontamination space, gym, community area, and 15 sleeping pods. The project also included a roof replacement and improvements to the station’s energy efficiency, with the installation of air conditioning, heat pumps, and gas boilers, as well as an upgraded energy supply system.

The new decontamination facilities, a crucial addition, allow firefighters to safely remove hazardous materials from their gear, reducing the risk of exposure. These spaces were carefully designed to be easily accessible and separate from other areas of the station. The refurbishment also included a new, multi-functional gym to support the health and fitness of firefighters, with space for yoga, stretching, and weight training.

In keeping with the station's historical character, Morgan Sindall took care to preserve key features, such as the original brass radiator grills, which were re-fitted after replacing old radiators with more efficient models.

The project was completed within 26 weeks, with the fire service temporarily relocating to nearby army barracks during construction. The strict adherence to deadlines allowed the crews to return to their renovated station on schedule, ensuring minimal disruption to their essential work.

In addition to the physical upgrades, the project supported the local economy, employing eight local labourers and engaging with nearby schools and colleges through work experience opportunities. Morgan Sindall also dedicated two days to volunteering at Brighton Mission Foodbank, donating 32 hampers to support the community.