The development of the revolutionary Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) Learning and Development Centre close to Cookstown is set to enter its final phase of development.

Work will begin on the £42.6 million last phase of the project in May 2022, with completion expected in 2024.

Health Minister Robin Swann made the latest announcement during a visit to the flagship project, where he met with representatives from the NIFRS and Newry firm Felix O'Hare & Co Ltd which secured the contract for the work.

"This investment will enable NIFRS to undertake the largest capital build in their history. The facilities it provides will revolutionise how NIFRS trains and develops its people to protect everyone in Northern Ireland," said Minister Swann.  

"The ambitious plans for Phase 2 include the building of a specialist driving and road traffic collision training area, a training environment for collapsed buildings and below ground rescue, a flood water rescue training facility, an academic building, mock fire station, ship and a 'call out village' which will include a training scenario bungalow, semi-detached dwelling and a detached dwelling.

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"These will provide Firefighters with scenario-based realistic and repeatable training experiences, and will complement the existing Tactical Firefighting Facility on the site which has been in operation since September 2019."

NIFRS Chairperson Ms Carmel McKinney OBE commented: "This is a hugely significant milestone in this visionary project of development and lifelong learning. Not only is it an investment in a safe and effective Fire and Rescue Service, it is an investment in the challenges we face in the future and the safety of everyone in Northern Ireland. On behalf of the NIFRS Board I welcome the appointment of a contractor to deliver on the largest capital build for NIFRS as we embrace what will be a transformative time in the history of our Service. I want to thank the Department of Health and the Minister for their support in this crucial project."

Damian Gill, Managing Director - Felix O'Hare & Co Ltd added: "Felix O'Hare & Co. Ltd are thrilled to have been appointed as the main contractor for Phase 2 of the Learning and Development Centre, Cookstown. This project marks a significant milestone for NIFRS, and we are delighted to work alongside the Project Team to deliver a 'real life', lifesaving training facility that will benefit all of Northern Ireland. This project provides us with an opportunity to strengthen our profile in delivering outstanding landmark facilities and we look forward to working closely with the NIRFS Team, local community, and supply chain to deliver this prestigious project."