A sod-cutting ceremony has marked an important milestone at the new £12 million training centre for the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service.
The facility, which is based in Newbridge on the outskirts of Edinburgh, is due to complete in March next year and will have the capacity to train more than 1,600 frontline firefighters every year.
The sod-cutting ceremony was attended by Annabelle Ewing, the Minister for Community Safety and Legal Affairs.
David Cairns, managing director of Robertson Central East said, “It is a privilege for the Robertson team to be working on this project, which has the potential to have a hugely positive impact on the work of this vital service. We look forward to working with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service over the coming year to ensure the facility meets their needs whilst engaging with the local community throughout.”
The new facility will be able to simulate multi-vehicle road collisions and will also be used to develop specialist skills including Urban Search and Rescue.
Alasdair Hay, chief officer at the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service said, “There can be no clearer indication of our commitment to both our communities and our firefighters than the significant investment in this new training facility. This is a momentous occasion as we continue to move forward in harnessing the very latest firefighting technologies, setting the benchmark of a truly world class fire and rescue service.”
The project was procured through Scape Group’s National Major Works framework, now superseded by the Major Works Scotland, part of the Scape National Construction framework, and delivered by Robertson in partnership with Willmott Dixon.
Victoria Brambini, managing director of Scape Procure said, “It is fantastic to see the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service and Robertson collaborate on a project of such significance. The new training centre will play a crucial role in providing current and future firefighters with the high quality training necessary to effectively fulfil their role. Through our framework it will be ensured that the project is delivered in a cost effective and timely manner, whilst offering training and employment opportunities for local people, which in turn will leave a legacy within the local community.”
