Ascot Drive Community Fire Station, Derby Slide 0

Ascot Drive Community Fire Station, Derby

A new landmark to support rapid response teams.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service asked us to design a replacement fire station that would support both their operational teams and the local community. The aim was to create a building that worked hard behind the scenes — supporting rapid response, modern training and efficient daily operations — while also offering an open, welcoming presence in a prominent part of the city.

The station accommodates 25 administration staff, 30 operational staff and around 50 community users. The site brings together 2,000 m² of operational, administrative and community space, alongside 1,700 m² of drill yard and training areas and 1,300 m² of parking, giving the team the room they need to train, respond and engage with the community.

Security was a key client driver, with the site arranged to provide clear public access while placing parking and operational areas behind controlled gates, robust perimeter fencing and CCTV coverage.

Inside, the layout separates operational functions from administrative and community activities to keep workflows simple and uninterrupted. The ground floor spaces focus on operational use, including offices, a meeting room, gym, restroom, changing areas and kit storage. Whilst the first floor spaces support administration and quiet work, with additional meeting rooms and an operational rest area.

This clear zoning helps teams concentrate, collaborate and reset between callouts. It also ensures that community visitors have a dedicated and welcoming place to access services without crossing operational routes.

The design breaks the building into three distinct volumes, each expressing its purpose through form and materials. Architectural blockwork, render and curtain walling work together to create a contemporary civic building that feels confident, functional and part of its surroundings. The central roof pitches were designed to optimise solar gain for a large array of photovoltaic panels — a key part of the station’s approach to long-term energy efficiency.

The new fire station strengthens Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service’s ability to respond quickly, train effectively and engage with the community. Its clear layout, secure design and efficient use of space give staff what they need to work with confidence, while the building’s modern identity helps establish it as a landmark on Ascot Drive.