London Fire Brigade to return to Albert Embankment HQ
Lambeth Council grants planning permission for the refurbishment of the historic headquarters building, with works set to finish in 2029.
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The London Fire Brigade (LFB) will return to its historic headquarters on Albert Embankment after Lambeth Council granted planning permission for refurbishment. The project will see the modernisation of the 1930s building and its 1980s control room extension. The existing Lambeth fire station on the ground and first floors will be refitted, and vacant office space will be repurposed as the LFB's headquarters. A space dedicated to the brigade's history, open to visitors, will also be established.
Historic building's future
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The headquarters building was originally opened on 21 July 1937 by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. It served as the brigade's main base until 2007, when operations moved to Union Street in Southwark. LFB commissioner Jonathan Smith described the move as a significant occasion for the brigade, stating that refurbishing an existing building offers the best value for Londoners and maintains an important presence in the city.
Temporary arrangements during works
Works at the Albert Embankment site are scheduled to commence in late 2026 and are expected to conclude in 2029. During this period, fire engines and firefighters will operate from alternative stations. One fire engine will be relocated to Clapham fire station, and another will be sent to Chelsea fire station.
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Questions this report answers
+When will the London Fire Brigade return to its Albert Embankment headquarters?
The London Fire Brigade is expected to return to its Albert Embankment headquarters once refurbishment works are completed. These works are projected to finish in 2029, with operations commencing in late 2026.
+What is happening to the Albert Embankment headquarters building?
The building is undergoing refurbishment to modernise its facilities. It will house the LFB's headquarters and control room, and will include a public space dedicated to the brigade's history.
+Where will fire engines operate from during the refurbishment?
During the refurbishment period, fire engines will operate from other stations. One engine will be based at Clapham fire station, and another will be sent to Chelsea fire station.
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