
Mark D
604 posts

























🔥 Brace for bad news: Bath Fire Station has just been rejected for listing by DCMS, the second case in a week where the Minister has controversially overruled the advice of both Historic England and C20 Society, who recommended a Grade II designation. Avon Fire & Rescue Service are now proposing to demolish Bath Fire Station and erect a new station on the same site. Designed by Molly Gerrard (nee Taylor) in 1938-39, the building is a very rare pre-war project by a female architect, and the only fire station known to have been designed by a female architect. The station went on to play a crucial role in protecting the city during the ‘Baedeker Blitz’ air-raids of 1942, demonstrating a clear case for historic interest. The building sits within the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Bath Conservation area, next to Greek Revival style Cleveland Bridge (Grade II*). In a Stripped Classical style with Art Deco details and clad in Bath Stone, the list report concludes: “Overall, the composition is both progressive and traditional in its architectural form, and in its style and use of materials is sensitive to the context of Bath’s classical Georgian architecture.” The decision arrives just days after the similar rejection of Shoreditch Fire Station (1963-64), calling into question why the Minister is opting to reject the recommendations of their appointed experts, Historic England, and the National Amenity Societies. C20 Society has written to DCMS requesting a review of both cases. The sole criteria on which listing decisions should be made are architectural and historic interest. Wider questions on social benefit and operations issues should be covered in subsequent listed building consent, and we’re concerned the latter may have unduly influenced the listing decisions in these cases. There are several examples of nationally listed historic fire stations that continue to be operational, with sensitive adaption and modernisation to suit the evolving needs of the Fire Brigade. Euston Fire Station in London is perhaps the best known example; opened in 1902 and Grade II* listed in 1974, it has been in continuous use for 123 years.
















