Work to start this year on €4.4m fire services training centre in Tullamore
A contractor has been appointed to build a new €4.4 million Regional Fire Services Training Centre next to the existing fire station in Tullamore.
Mayo-based Finna Construction Ltd was appointed as the main contractor for the delivery of the project.
The development comprises the expansion of the drill training ground into the adjoining green field site, and the provision of a training support block which includes a lecture room, syndicate training rooms, briefing room, canteen and changing facilities.
The funding for it also includes an expansion of the existing fire station to accommodate a vehicle maintenance workshop.
In a statement this week, Offaly County Council said construction was due to begin towards the end of this year, with the contractor carrying out site preliminary works beforehand.
"This new Regional Fire Services Training Centre allows for an expansion to the range of course types to be delivered, not only to Offaly County Council Fire & Rescue Service but also to firefighters and fire officers from across the country," said Offaly County Council's Chief Fire Officer, Eoin O’Ceilleachair
"This expansion supports our current training centre that has been in use since 2009, and will provide increased opportunities not only for our own personnel to deliver training at a regional and national level, but also to the town's accommodation providers, restaurants and other businesses who interact with the centre."
Council Cathaoirleach, Cllr Eddie Fitzpatrick, said: "Tullamore was identified as an ideal location for this new Regional Fire Service Training Centre based on the town's central location that is easily accessible by both road and rail links.
"The provision of funding to support this project is a testament to the hard work, dedication and determination of Offaly County Council and the Offaly Fire & Rescue Service staff. I wish the Fire Service the very best with this project," said Cllr Fitzpatrick.
The Regional Fire Services Training Centre project is being funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage through the National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management.