News

Semple & McKillop are proud to have played a key role in the IST for the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service’s (NIFRS) groundbreaking new Learning & Development College. This state-of-the-art facility will provide essential training for NIFRS personnel, incorporating a wide range of mechanical, electrical, and renewable energy solutions.

Located in Desertcreat, near Cookstown, the expansive campus is equipped with cutting-edge facilities, including a Tactical Firefighting Facility, the first Flood Water Training Facility in Ireland, a Search & Rescue Training Area, a Training Warehouse & Fire Station, a Learning & Development Centre and realistic, simulated environments for emergency response training.

The site also features specialised areas dedicated to road traffic collision rescue, industrial and chemical response, and fire rescue practice.

Advanced BIM modelling played a crucial role in ensuring seamless coordination across the multi-disciplinary design and construction teams.

Additionally, the project achieved BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certification for both the Learning & Development College and the Training Warehouse Fire Station. Sustainable solutions that contributed to this success include rainwater harvesting, air source heat pumps for domestic hot water, solar photovoltaic panels and hybrid ventilation systems.

This pioneering development represents a major investment in the safety and preparedness of emergency responders across Northern Ireland. Semple & McKillop are delighted to have contributed to this world-class training facility.