Lambeth River Fire Station returns to Albert Embankment following six-month refurbishment

Historic return to Albert Embankment

Last month, Lambeth River Fire Station reopened at its historic site on Albert Embankment on the River Thames, following six months of extensive refurbishment work carried out in Lowestoft.

The fire station’s firefighters, who had been temporarily stationed at HMS President during the renovation, have now resumed operations from their original location, as reported by the London Fire Brigade.

Firefighting on the Thames dates back to the 1700s, with Lambeth River Fire Station established in 1936.

The station’s crews operate two fireboats that respond to incidents along the river, on bridges, and from the shoreline.

They work closely with organisations including the RNLI, the Metropolitan Police Service, HMS Coastguard, and the Port of London Authority, responding to over 170 incidents annually, averaging three responses weekly.

Refurbishment extends station’s lifespan

The refurbishment included comprehensive repairs to the station’s hull, enhancing its structural integrity and extending its operational lifespan by approximately 25 years.

Additional work included painting, redecoration, and overall improvements to crew facilities, ensuring that the station remains fit for purpose in serving London’s unique river-based firefighting needs.

Laura Birnbaum, Assistant Director of Property and Technical Support Services, stated: “After a significant investment into the maintenance of Lambeth River Fire Station, crews have been welcomed back to their historic home on Albert Embankment.”

Enhanced fireboats boost operational capabilities

The station’s return coincides with the recent addition of two new fireboats, ‘Tanner’ and ‘Errington’, which were acquired with a £3.2 million investment in 2022.

These boats are designed to reach speeds of up to 40 knots, double that of the previous vessels, and are equipped with advanced firefighting tools, including hydraulic cranes for water rescues and high-definition thermal imaging cameras.

Birnbaum noted: “Improvements to the station follow a £3.2m investment in two new fireboats.

“In service since 2022, ‘Tanner’ and ‘Errington’ are twice as fast as the previous vessels and can reach speeds of forty knots.”

Temporary relocation and collaboration with HMS President

During the refurbishment period, Lambeth River Fire Station’s crews operated from HMS President, with the support of the Royal Navy, ensuring uninterrupted service along the Thames.

The temporary relocation allowed the Brigade’s fireboats to continue responding to emergencies on the river.

Lieutenant Commander L J Broster of the Royal Navy expressed appreciation for the collaboration, stating: “HMS PRESIDENT has been very pleased to host our colleagues from London Fire Brigade (LFB) since February.

“During this period, LFB has utilised the site near Tower Bridge, operating two fire boats.”

Lambeth River Fire Station returns to Albert Embankment following six-month refurbishment: Summary

Lambeth River Fire Station has resumed operations from its historic base at Albert Embankment following a six-month refurbishment in Lowestoft.

Firefighters, temporarily stationed at HMS President, have returned to Lambeth, restoring the station’s operational readiness.

The refurbishment, which included improvements to the station’s hull and facilities, extends its service life by 25 years.

Additionally, two recently acquired fireboats, Tanner and Errington, enhance the station’s capacity to respond swiftly to emergencies along the Thames.