Fire station reopens following infrastructure investment

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has reported that a full refurbishment of Maghera Fire Station has been completed following an investment of £772,500.

The station, which originally opened in 1969, has been modernised to meet current safety and operational requirements while maintaining its role within the Maghera community.

According to NIFRS, the work began in August 2024 and was completed in April 2025.

The organisation stated that the project ensures the facility remains suitable for future operational use.

It added that the upgrade is part of a broader effort to maintain safe, functional fire stations across the region.

Modern facilities added to support firefighters

NIFRS explained that the refurbishment included the installation of updated mechanical and electrical systems across the site.

The work also included upgrades to firefighter welfare facilities and the creation of a purpose-built kit room.

As part of its sustainability policy, the organisation stated that solar photovoltaic (PV) panels have been installed.

It said these measures improve the working environment and contribute to operational readiness.

NIFRS confirmed the fire station is now aligned with modern building and energy efficiency standards.

Senior officer highlights long-term community role

NIFRS Western Area Commander David Doherty said: “The completion of this refurbishment at Maghera Fire Station marks a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to investing in our infrastructure and ensuring the safety, wellbeing and operational readiness of our Firefighters.

“Built in 1969, this Station has been proudly serving the community for over 5 decades.

“These upgrades not only enhance the working environment for our Firefighters but also ensure we are better equipped to serve and protect the local community.”

Doherty added: “Maghera Fire Station is a cornerstone of the local community, protecting and serving the local people.

“We are immensely grateful to everyone who contributed to this project and to the local community for their continued trust and backing of their Fire & Rescue Service.

“Together we are helping to make Northern Ireland a safer place.”

Regional infrastructure plans continue

The fire and rescue service confirmed that this refurbishment forms part of a wider programme of capital investment across the region.

NIFRS stated that its goal is to improve the quality, safety and sustainability of all fire stations under its responsibility.

It said that future refurbishments will be informed by the operational requirements of each location.

Additional projects are expected to be scheduled following ongoing assessment of existing building stock.

NIFRS also emphasised the importance of community support in delivering these improvements.

Legacy building adapted to meet future needs

The organisation said that Maghera Fire Station’s original structure was retained during the refurbishment process.

Updates were designed to preserve the building’s longstanding position within the town while adapting it for present-day use.

Work was undertaken with minimal disruption to local services, according to NIFRS.

It stated that all construction met relevant health and safety regulations throughout the process.

NIFRS noted that the upgraded station now supports both traditional emergency response needs and long-term service delivery goals.

NIFRS completes Maghera fire station refurbishment in Northern Ireland: Summary

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has completed the refurbishment of Maghera Fire Station.

The project cost £772,500 and was completed between August 2024 and April 2025.

The fire station was originally constructed in 1969.

NIFRS confirmed that all mechanical and electrical systems were replaced.

Welfare facilities and a new kit room were also added.

Solar PV panels were installed to support energy efficiency.

NIFRS Western Area Commander David Doherty said the upgrades improve operational readiness and firefighter safety.

The fire station remains in its original location with structural continuity preserved.

Refurbishment works followed current health and safety standards.

The organisation stated that the upgrade is part of a wider regional investment programme.

NIFRS said further improvements are planned for other stations across Northern Ireland.