A campaign has been launched to secure a brand new fire station in Devonport, Plymouth, to replace the crumbling Camels Head Fire Station, described as being in a “shameful state” by local MP Luke Pollard.
Built more than 60 years ago, Camels Head Fire Station has fallen into disrepair. Firefighters are dealing with structural damage, heating outages, and in some cases having to sleep in temporary pods while on duty.
MP calls for urgent action
Luke Pollard MP has brought together local stakeholders including Devon and Somerset Fire Service and the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) to push forward a proposal for a new station in Devonport.
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He said:
“Camels Head Fire Station is in a shameful state for our firefighters that’s why I’m launching a campaign to provide a brand new fire station for our firefighters in Devonport.
“Devonport fire station protected the dockyard during the Second World War. I’m calling for a new station there to keep communities in the west of Plymouth well-served.”
A vital service for Plymouth communities
Camels Head Fire Station operates 24/7 and covers key areas including Barne Barton, Mount Wise, Keyham, Ernesettle, and Devonport dockyard.
The fire service has previously considered either refurbishing the site or closing it and moving crews to Crownhill station, but campaigners argue a modern, purpose-built station is the only way to properly support crews and the communities they protect.
Fire Service and FBU back campaign
Chief Fire Officer Gavin Ellis acknowledged the need for investment:
“We recognise the pride that people in the community have in their local services and how much value they put in their fire stations.
“We want to improve our estate in Plymouth so we can provide better, sustainable facilities for our colleagues to support communities now and in the future.”
FBU brigade chair Alex Smith said firefighters were committed to securing funding:
“The FBU are committed to supporting the rebuild of Camels Head Fire Station.
“We have been working with our members at the station branch, MPs, councillors, and the service in a bid to secure funding, and to get the commitment pushed forward for a new facility suitable for the community it serves, and for the safe and modern working environment of the watches based there.
“Camels Head is a proud branch, highly committed to the communities within their response ground and dedicated to Plymouth alongside neighbouring crews in the city.”
