Banstead Fire Station Relocation Deferred Until 2026

The anticipated closure of Banstead Fire Station has been postponed for one year. Surrey Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has accepted an offer from Surrey Police, the building’s owner, to continue utilizing the current premises until 2026 while the service seeks a new location. SFRS had previously announced intentions to transfer firefighters and equipment to Whyteleafe; however, a suitable site could not be identified during an initial search. Godstone Fire Station was subsequently proposed as an alternative, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service. Reigate MP Rebecca Paul cautioned that a move to Godstone would result in increased response times for emergencies and suggested that closer sites should be considered. She stated: “This is deeply worrying for residents and feels like a backwards step in terms of safety. “I am very much hoping that SFRS are successful in their exercise to find an alternative site that better serves the Banstead area.”This is a fantastic opportunity to build a new, modern fire station, keeping our communities and our homes even safer.” Dan Quin, SFRS chief officer, has indicated that the brigade must adapt and evolve to enhance its effectiveness and efficiency. He described the necessity to vacate Banstead as “pressing,” explaining that crews currently need to leave the area for regular training. The station, he added, also lacks a long-term solution for handling contaminated kit, as firefighters’ protective gear frequently requires specialized cleaning. Quin affirmed that Whyteleafe was the “most appropriate location to move” based on risk and demand, but acknowledged that a suitable site there has not yet been secured.