New building combines control center, crisis management team and training areas
As announced by the Science City of Darmstadt, the city council approved the construction of the new main fire station on Pfnorstraße at its meeting on September 3. The new building will replace the existing "North Fire Station" and will assume central functions for the fire service, rescue services, and disaster control.
Location and central functions
The construction site is planned for the corner of Pfnorstraße and Gräfenhäuser Straße. In addition to emergency vehicles and personnel for daily emergency response, the station will house the control center for Darmstadt's non-police emergency response, rooms for the command and disaster control staff, and the new location of the city's crisis management team.
The main fire station will also include logistics and workshop areas, space for training and continuing education for full-time and volunteer firefighters, as well as administrative and storage rooms for the operations, civil protection, preventive fire protection, technology, and self-administration departments.
Sustainable planning and energy supply
The design meets the requirements of the climate reservation for building construction. A combination of wastewater heat recovery and a large-scale photovoltaic system is planned, enabling almost entirely renewable heat supply and a high proportion of climate-friendly electricity. This will be complemented by thermal insulation measures, efficient building technology, and a green roof. The PV system, with a total output of almost 800 kWp, will provide electricity for the fire department.
Construction and approval schedule
The building permit application is scheduled for summer 2025. A survey for explosive ordnance and the disposal of contaminated soil are already underway. Sewer construction work will begin in October. A reserve area also allows for a future expansion of the second floor.
Significance for the city
"The new fire station is part of the city's critical infrastructure, which must remain fully functional even in crisis situations. Emergency services will operate continuously, and the station is designed to accommodate approximately 140 emergency personnel," explains City Councilor Paul Georg Wandrey.
The Darmstadt Urban Development Company (DSE) is managing the new building on behalf of the city, while the technical responsibility lies with City Councillor Wandrey.
