We’re proud to highlight a recent Caswell Firesafe® project: the iconic London Road Fire Station in Manchester.
Working alongside Ductwork Design and Installation Ltd, our mission was to supply fire-resisting ductwork that achieves full compliance without compromising this landmark’s stunning Edwardian Baroque architecture.
The building opened in 1906, designed by Woodhouse, Willoughby and Langham. The building complex, situated at a prime location, has been a Grade II listed building since 1974.
Originally built by J. Gerrard & Sons of Swinton, it was more than just a fire station; it included a police station, an ambulance station, a bank, a coroner’s court, a gas meter testing station and apartments for firemen and their families. It was initially equipped with horse-drawn fire appliances and transitioned to motorised vehicles shortly after it’s opening.
During its operational years, the fire station was significant in the community, especially during World War II when it was visited by royalty in 1942 to honour the brigade’s efforts. Post-war, it evolved into a training centre and became notable in 1952 as the first centre equipped to record emergency calls. The building also served as the headquarters for the Manchester Fire Brigade until 1974, after which the Greater Manchester Fire Service took over, leading to its eventual closure in 1986.
After closing, the building fell into a period of decline and was largely unused, prompting its placement on English Heritage’s Buildings at Risk Register in 2001. A significant turning point came in 2010 when Manchester City Council issued a compulsory purchase order to Britannia Hotels, which had left the building derelict for nearly 30 years. The building was finally sold to Allied London in 2015, and in 2018, redevelopment work began to transform the site into a mixed-use facility focusing on leisure and hotel amenities, aiming to restore its historic grandeur and utility.
It is a privilege to play a part in bringing this historic building back to life for the next generation.
A huge thank you to Dave Byrne – Project Manager, Graeme Hayhoe – Head of Fire Resisting Ductwork and Robert Smith, Tony Hewitson & the installation team Ductwork Design and Installation Ltd for their hard work on-site and for providing the project insights and photo’s.
Click here to request a quote on an upcoming project or here to request a booking for our CIBSE Approved Fire Resisting Ductwork CPD.
