Launched today, the guide 'Achieving Design Quality in Fire and Rescue Service Buildings' will put great design at the heart of plans for a new generation of buildings which will as well as being greener will be a place where communities can come together socially to hear key fire safety advice.

The design of many fire stations - often intimidating and closed-looking Victorian buildings - does not make them naturally inviting places for the public. The popular image of fire stations is often of red bay doors opening briefly to allow out a blue light fire engine before closing again to the outside world. The Design Guide aims to change this.

Speaking at the Guide's launch at London Fire Brigade's newly built Millwall fire station Parmjit Dhanda said:

"Many of our traditional fire stations are magnificent buildings that are an important piece of the architectural landscape and play an important part in local communities. But we want to add to the range of buildings and facilities that the fire and rescue services have at their disposal."

The aim of the guide is to help the FRS to commission buildings that are:
* Functional, aspirational and that offer high tech facilities;
* eye pleasing;
* welcoming and accessible to the community;
* environmentally friendly; and
* good working and motivational conditions for staff;

The guide also suggests new uses for fire stations that would encourage the local community to visit their local fire station and thus help in engaging with the community to spread fire safety messages. The suggestions are:
* hosting community events and services;
* on site cash points;
* providing car parks in rural areas; and
* providing space for art displays.

Parmjit Dhanda added:

"We all need to play our part in being greener and in sustainable construction. To challenge climate change the Guide promotes the incorporation of features such as the reuse of rain water and energy-saving sensor lighting."