Plans have been revealed to upgrade several Cumbrian fire stations after a report revealed many are not equipped for the needs of a modern service.
The Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner said 10 stations had been identified following building condition surveys, a compliance review and engagement with building users.
A report for the Police, Fire and Crime Panel said: “The work has a focus on addressing gaps in compliance, repairing maintenance defects and improving the condition and layout of the buildings.
“A key theme of the works is improving facilities to provide accommodation which meets the needs of equality, gender and inclusion.”
Design work is complete at several sites including Alston, Barrow, Longtown, Silloth, and Windermere stations.
A scheme is also designed for Coniston, but that is currently on hold while an operational review of the vehicle appliance bay was ongoing.
The report says all these schemes will be complete during 2025 into early 2026.
Proposals are also in place to improve the police and fire station in Kendal, focusing on security and parking.
The report added: “Work is ongoing with Westmorland and Furness Council to transfer land owned by them to the commissioner and improve parking capacity.
“This will address risk around service delivery, specifically fire service response of the on-call crew.”
At Grange Fire Station the report said an agreement had been reached with the North West Ambulance Service for it to occupy underused space on the ground floor of the building.
In return, the ambulance service pays a modest rent and has undertaken a programme of work to improve the condition of the layout of the building.
In February, work started at Whitehaven Fire Station to improve welfare facilities and address shortfalls in compliance and condition.
According to the report, work, using a local contractor, was on track for completion in July this year.
Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Mr Allen told the panel the service has shown itself in being prudent at managing its budget but added the force required investment.
He added: “Investment in its buildings is needed to improve welfare and compliance. Investment in its fleet and equipment to enable it to perform and respond appropriately.
“And most importantly investment in its people to continue to keep the population of the county safe.”
