Meath County Council has welcomed a landmark announcement by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD, confirming a €15.8 million investment in the county's fire service infrastructure.

The funding is part of a broader €328.5 million National Fire Services Capital Programme, the largest ever state investment in the sector. The initiative is designed to bolster emergency response, improve firefighter safety, and ensure stations across the country are fit for purpose.

In Meath, the lion's share of the funding—€13 million—has been allocated to the Navan Fire Station Headquarters, which has been designated as a national priority project. The investment will facilitate the delivery of a replacement headquarters on the existing site, with provisions in place to ensure service continuity during the construction phase.

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Meath County Council has already completed a detailed feasibility study and concept design. The proposed modern facility will include:

• 10 appliance bays, featuring double-length bays and dedicated maintenance areas.

• Modernised training, operational, control, and welfare facilities.

• Improved site access to the N51 national route for faster emergency response.

• Built-in capacity for future expansion to accommodate regional population growth.

Subject to statutory processes, planning is anticipated for 2026, with construction expected to begin in late 2027.

Furthermore, €2.8 million has been earmarked for Oldcastle Fire Station to support essential refurbishment and upgrades, improving operational resilience in the north-west of the county. The council has also been granted funding for one new fire appliance as part of its ongoing fleet renewal programme.

Commenting on the investment, Cllr. Wayne Harding, Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, said: "This is a very significant investment in the safety and resilience of our communities. The upgrade of Navan Fire Station HQ in particular reflects its strategic importance as the county's principal fire headquarters and ensures our firefighters have facilities that match the critical role they perform every day."

Meath County Council Chief Executive Kieran Kehoe added: "The confirmation of funding recognises the extensive preparatory work already carried out by Meath County Council. These projects will enhance operational effectiveness, firefighter welfare, and emergency response times, while future‑proofing services for a growing county."