Kettering’s firefighters could soon be getting a brand-new home. A planning application has been submitted for a state-of-the-art fire station on Cherry Hall Road, a move that would replace the current station that has served the town for nearly 70 years.
The proposed station, located next to the Weekley Woods Justice Centre, is part of a broader strategy to modernise fire service facilities across the county. The new facility would include a purpose-built station, a dedicated storage building, and a four-storey training tower to ensure crews are always prepared.
From Headlands to a Modern Hub
The current station on the Headlands has been in use since 1955. While it has a long history of serving the community, it no longer meets the demands of modern firefighting. Issues with access and parking at the existing site can cause delays, and the building itself has fallen short of current standards for working conditions and crew welfare.
The new location would offer improved access to major road routes, helping crews respond more quickly and efficiently to emergencies.
Designed for Today’s Firefighters
The proposed station has been designed with the needs of a modern fire service in mind. It would feature a larger bay with more space for fire engines, as well as upgraded welfare facilities including new toilets, showers, and changing rooms.
A key feature of the new design is the inclusion of eight individual dormitories, providing more privacy and dignity for a diverse workforce. The layout also follows best practice from the Health and Safety Executive to manage equipment exposed to contaminants safely.
This investment reflects the commitment to ensuring that Northamptonshire’s fire service has the resources and facilities it needs to keep communities safe. While the application is being considered by North Northamptonshire Council, crews will continue to operate as usual from the Headlands station.
Want to view the plans? You can find the live planning application for the new Kettering fire station on the North Northamptonshire Council planning portal using the reference number 25/00807/FUL.
All images by: NFRS