Plans for a new fire station in the County Kilkenny town of Urlingford have taken a major step forward.

McStan Construction has secured a contract to build the new facility, with representative John Staunton signing the deal with Cathaoirleach Fidelis Doherty.

The old fire station in Urlingford has been in operation since the early 1970s and needs replacement as the existing station is limited to cope with the demands of a modern fire and rescue service. The proposed new site is adjacent to Urlingford Garda station and across the road from the existing station. The new design is to incorporate a two-bay station with a training yard, lecture room, canteen and staff facilities. Specific training installations include a drill tower, an underground water tank and breathing apparatus compressor room.

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Speaking at the contract signing, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Fidelis Doherty said: "Kilkenny County Council continues to invest in the Fire Service by upgrading and developing the facilities and equipment of Kilkenny Fire and Rescue Service. Over the last number of years, we have provided new fire stations in Graiguenamanagh and Castlecomer and we have recently provided 3 no. jeeps to Castlecomer, Graiguenamanagh and Urlingford."

Chief Fire Officer, John Collins was delighted that work is finally to commence on building a new fire station for Urlingford. In addition to high levels of training and competence amongst firefighters, he pointed out how important it is that the fleet and equipment in place for those firefighters is up to the very highest standard and fit for the purpose of running a modern Fire and Rescue service.