Ground breaking at new Bathurst Fire Station
Published: 16th August 2006
Minister for Emergency Services Tony Kelly and Country Labor Member for Bathurst Gerard Martin has turned the sod on the site of the new NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) Bathurst Fire Station.
Mr Kelly said the successful tenderer for the $1.8 million project was Dubbo-based company Stanaway Pty Ltd (David Payne Constructions) and work was expected to begin later this month.
"I congratulate Stanaway on its successful bid for this crucial community facility – the company has a good record of managing large Government projects," Mr Kelly said.
"Bathurst needs a new fire station and the NSW Government is committed to ensuring its delivery by early next year," he said.
"Local firefighters will soon have the modern facilities they require and deserve to continue to protect the people of Bathurst.
The Minister and Mr Martin officially broke the ground at the site, on the corner of Alexander and Suttor Streets.
"The new single storey station will house 25 firefighters and two fire engines and there will still be room for growth, to meet the future needs of the Bathurst population," Mr Martin said.
"The building is expected to be ready by March next year," he said.
He said in acknowledgment of the NSWFB's long-term commitment to Bathurst, the observation tower from the original 1880 fire station would be included in the new station's design.
"Firefighters are immensely proud of their history and the new fire station will be the NSWFB's fourth home in Bathurst. Previous stations have been located in William Street, Piper Street and the current site in George Street.
Mr Kelly said the new station would also feature environmentally friendly heating, lighting and rainwater storage.
"The builders will be using recycled material in the project and ensure the facility is as 'green' as possible," he said.
"Firefighters will also be able to refill breathing apparatus cylinders from fire stations throughout the Central West."
He said the new Bathurst Fire Station would be delivered as part of the Iemma Government’s record spending on NSW emergency services.
"The NSW Fire Brigades' current budget of $523.2 million (2006/07) is an increase of $34.5 million on last year and $281.7 million since we came to Government."