Whitefield Community Fire Station, Manchester
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Summary
Improving safety and emergency services in the Greater Manchester area
Robertson Construction North West has delivered its first blue light project in Greater Manchester, the new Whitefield Community Fire Station.
This exciting development included the demolition of the outdated station to make way for a modern, two-storey facility. The new build features a revitalised appliance bay, a state-of-the-art training tower, improved landscaping, and upgraded parking facilities. It has been thoughtfully designed to support the next generation of emergency response.
BREEAM Excellent
design
47
solar panels
3
air source heat pumps
Overcoming challenges and managing risks
Robertson successfully overcame several challenges to deliver this high-quality fire and rescue facility through a safe and sustainable approach.
We made a striking discovery early in the process – a vast, hidden basement, revealing the previous fire station had been previously built over a large void. Acting swiftly to avoid risk and delays, our team worked closely with the customer to assess the structural implications and develop robust, practical solutions. By crushing on-site demolition material and using it as back-fill, we not only stabilised the site but also reduced CO2 emissions.
Another challenge was the careful dismantling of the existing training tower – a tall, imposing structure positioned just metres from the temporary fire station and busy main road. Height restrictions and limited access added more complexity, but with smart planning, strong teamwork and communication skills, the work was completed without impacting daily operations.
Working together to deliver on a live site
Delivering the project on a live emergency services site meant the existing fire station had to remain fully operational. This required precise planning, coordination, and a flexible approach to deliver the development safely, and without disruption to the daily running’s of the fire station and the residents.
We took the time to fully understand GMFRS’ priorities, building trust through proactive and consistent communication. We maintained open channels of communication and transparency to ensure the client understood the implications allowing them to make well-informed decisions.
Leading the delivery of expanded facilities for GMFRS
Robertson has also completed the construction of the new Blackley Community Fire Station. This project had reached the halfway mark before delivery came to an unexpected halt. Stepping in, Robertson North West resumed the work with renewed momentum, bringing proven expertise and a reputation for assured delivery and quality.
Accelerating low-carbon alternatives
Sustainability was at the heart of this project from day one. To reduce environmental impact and boost energy efficiency, the design integrates three air source heat pumps, 47 solar panels, and introduced a green roof system alongside a robust external drainage solution, incorporating an attenuation pond. Every element was designed with one goal in mind, to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating.
During the pre-construction phase, we carried out a detailed demolition survey to explore opportunities for reuse, and the results were remarkable. Every single material on-site, from bricks and concrete to metal and timber was reused to create a substrate for the new station. By reclaiming and repurposing 100% of these materials, we not only minimised our environmental footprint but also delivered a smarter, more circular approach to construction, all aligned with our sustainability ambitions.
Making a difference in local communities
As a Considerate Constructors-registered site, we’re committed to creating lasting value for the local community. We prioritise local employment and procurement, with approximately £4.2 million forecast to be spent within a 20-mile radius to date.
In partnership with local job centres, we supported access to employment, including hosting a Plan B apprentice through the Robertson scheme, who remained with the team until the end of the project in September 2026.
These efforts aligned with our wider Social Value Plan, ensuring our projects support local growth, skills development, and sustainable outcomes.
Completion photography
Route to market
The project was procured through North West Construction Hub, a compliant, ethical, not‑for‑profit framework designed to deliver public benefit.
