A Historic Homecoming
London Fire Brigade (LFB) is heading back to its spiritual home.
Lambeth Council has granted planning permission for a comprehensive refurbishment of the Brigade's historic headquarters on Albert Embankment, a site that has stood at the heart of the capital's fire service for nearly a century.
The move will see the 1930s headquarters building and its 1980s control room extension brought back to life, with the existing Lambeth Fire Station on the ground and first floor modernised and refitted for the demands of modern firefighting.
The building's vacant office space will once again serve as the Brigade's headquarters, bringing professional services back under one roof and removing the need to rent separate office space elsewhere in the city.
A Building Steeped in History
The headquarters was officially opened on 21 July 1937 by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, and served as the Brigade's command centre until 2007, when operations were relocated to Union Street in Southwark.
For nearly two decades, the Lambeth site has sat partially vacant. Now, it is set to become a working fire station, a modern headquarters, and a public heritage space all at once.
The redevelopment will also create a new home for the Brigade's historic collection, centred around the existing Memorial Hall, where the sacrifice of fallen London firefighters is remembered. A new community room at the base of the 1980s extension will be open to local resident groups.
"A Historic Occasion"
London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith said the return represents a significant moment for the Brigade and its workforce.
"Moving back to Lambeth is a historic occasion for the Brigade. This building is part of the culture of the organisation and I know it holds special significance across our workforce."
"These plans will not just deliver an upgraded fire station to serve the people of Lambeth but also provide a modern HQ for the Brigade, while preserving an important part of the Brigade and London's history."
"Refurbishing and modernising an existing building offers the best value for Londoners and ensures we maintain an important presence in the heart of London."
What Happens During the Works?
While the refurbishment is carried out, the Lambeth fire engines and firefighters will be relocated to neighbouring stations. One fire engine will move to Clapham fire station, with the other sent to Chelsea fire station, ensuring continued fire cover for the local area.
The project will be delivered by Willmott Dixon Interiors and Pick Everard on behalf of the Brigade, with Turley providing planning consultancy, Kanda leading community and stakeholder engagement, and 5 Plus developing the architectural design.
Works are due to begin in late 2026 and are projected to finish in 2029.
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