Lib Dems reignite stalled plans under Tories to begin a transformative development for Hertfordshire to have one of the most advanced Live Fire Training facilities in the country

Once completed in October 2027, the site at Stevenage will become one of the most advanced Operational Live Fire Training (OLFT) centres in the UK, providing firefighters with realistic training, enhanced safety measures and improved facilities, specifically designed to meet the demands of modern firefighting and emergency response.

The state-of-the-art redevelopment includes a five-storey OLFT facility, providing immersive, realistic training environments where firefighters can safely experience real flames, heat, smoke, restricted visibility and other complex incident conditions under controlled settings. 

A key feature of the project is the installation of a full-scale replica six-lane motorway.  It will provide invaluable hands-on experience in managing complex incidents, including multi-vehicle road traffic collisions and casualty extrication, while also supporting joint resilience training with emergency service partners.

Safety is at the heart of the redevelopment, with firefighter health, safety and wellbeing central to the design. The facility will incorporate enhanced contamination control measures, dedicated decontamination areas and improved welfare facilities to help reduce exposure to harmful contaminants and support firefighters' long-term health and wellbeing.

The redevelopment demonstrates our commitment to strengthening preparedness and community safety across Hertfordshire.

Designed to reflect the latest operational best practice, the investment will provide a safer, more supportive working environment for crews while strengthening Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue’s existing reputation as a leading service and an employer of choice.

Councillor Ajanta Hilton, Executive Member for Public Health and Community Safety says: 

“This redevelopment represents a major investment in the future of Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service and demonstrates our commitment to keeping residents safe. Our firefighters respond to some of the most challenging and demanding situations imaginable. It is vital that they have access to facilities that prepare them for those incidents safely and effectively. This redevelopment will ensure Hertfordshire remains at the forefront of firefighter training for many years to come.”