Historic investment approved for Surrey fire service

The investment at Wray Park is part of a wider initiative to modernise Surrey’s fire stations

A historic investment has been approved to improve Surrey Fire and Rescue Service's training facilities in Reigate.

The approval from Surrey County Council's cabinet means the largest single investment in training for frontline staff in the fire service's history.

The upgrade includes improvements to the firehouse and training facilities at Wray Park.

Assistant chief fire officer Sally Wilson said: "The current facilities require regular repairs and maintenance, and no longer meet the needs of a modern firefighting service."

'Important milestone'

She added that the facilities had become "inefficient to operate and maintain".

The improvements aim to ensure that firefighters have access to state-of-the-art resources to complete statutory training requirements safely and efficiently.

The investment is also expected to help with training in critical areas such as working at height, live fire behaviour, use of breathing apparatus, and operations in confined spaces.

Ms Wilson said: “This investment marks an important milestone for our service’s future."

Chief fire officer Dan Quin added: “Our aim is to lead the way in fire and rescue service training, becoming a hub for excellence in the sector.”

The investment at Wray Park is part of a wider initiative to modernise Surrey’s fire stations, with redevelopment projects planned for Lingfield and Chobham.

A public consultation event will take place in May for local residents and stakeholders.