London Fire Brigade (LFB) has received planning permission from Lambeth Council to redevelop its historic headquarters on Albert Embankment, paving the way for the Brigade to return to the site. The plans include modernising Lambeth Fire Station, refurbishing office accommodation and creating new community facilities.

Originally constructed in the 1930s to serve as the Brigade's headquarters, the building was extended in the 1980s to accommodate its Control Room. The approved redevelopment will see both sections refurbished, ensuring the historic site can continue to support the operational and organisational needs of London Fire Brigade.

Modernising operational facilities

As part of the redevelopment, Lambeth Fire Station, which occupies the ground and first floors of the building, will undergo significant modernisation.

Improvements will include upgraded equipment storage, new workspaces and refurbished accommodation for firefighters. Training facilities will also be enhanced, while the station's appliance bays will be adapted to accommodate modern fire and rescue vehicles.

The improvements aim to provide firefighters with facilities that better support their operational requirements and the delivery of emergency services across London.

Bringing headquarters back to Lambeth

The redevelopment will also bring currently vacant office space back into use, enabling London Fire Brigade to relocate its headquarters to the historic site.

The refurbished offices will accommodate the professional and support services responsible for the Brigade's day-to-day operations.

Returning to Lambeth is also expected to deliver financial benefits by reducing the need for rented office accommodation, helping to provide better value for money for Londoners.

Creating new community and heritage spaces

Alongside improvements to operational and office facilities, the redevelopment will introduce dedicated spaces for local residents and the wider public.

A new community room will be created at the base of the 1980s extension, providing a space for local groups and community activities.

The plans also include a new home for London Fire Brigade's historic collection, centred around the existing Memorial Hall, which commemorates firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The heritage space will provide opportunities for visitors to learn more about the Brigade's history and its role in protecting London.

Community consultation informs redevelopment plans

Before submitting its planning application, London Fire Brigade undertook a thorough options appraisal and a series of consultations with local residents and community representatives.

The consultation process provided an opportunity for the Brigade to consider local views and priorities as part of its proposals for the site.

With planning permission now granted, the redevelopment represents an important step towards modernising the Brigade's facilities while preserving the historic significance of its former headquarters.

London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith said: “Moving back to Lambeth is an historic occasion for the London Fire Brigade. This building is part of the culture of the organisation and I know it holds a very special significance across our workforce.”

Smith continued: “These plans will not just deliver an upgraded fire station to serve the people of Lambeth, but also provide a modern headquarters for the Brigade, while at the same time preserving an important part of the Brigade and London’s history.”

According to Smith: “Refurbishing and modernising an existing building offers the best value for Londoners and ensures that we maintain an important presence in the heart of the capital.”

The project will be delivered by Willmott Dixon Interiors and Pick Everard on behalf of the Brigade. Turley has provided planning consultancy services, Kanda has led community and stakeholder engagement and 5 Plus has developed the Stage 2 architectural design.

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