Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service's future at Pirehill headquarters in Stone has been thrown into question as the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Ben Adams considers selling the site to help fund a new facility elsewhere in the county.
The decision follows concerns about significant development on the outskirts of Stone, which could eventually surround the current headquarters. Mr Adams questioned whether Pirehill could find itself "in the midst of a building site" and raised concerns about whether the location would limit access to the facility.
Development Plans Around Pirehill
During the previous Local Plan process, a developer submission included proposals for commercial development around North Pirehill Farm, close to the fire service headquarters. Plans submitted at that time showed an initial phase totalling around 435,700 square feet, together with land identified for possible future expansion.
Stafford Borough Council stopped work on its former Local Plan 2020 to 2040 in March 2025. A replacement Local Plan covering 2025 to 2045 is now being prepared and is still at an early stage, with its first consultation taking place this summer. The council continues to invite landowners and developers to submit sites for consideration for future housing and employment development.
Options Under Consideration
Mr Adams confirmed that selling the headquarters is among a number of options being considered. If Pirehill were sold, the site itself could potentially be used for housing or commercial development, with proceeds directed towards building a modern replacement facility elsewhere in Staffordshire.
No decision has been taken. Any changes would be subject to consultation, Mr Adams said.
The proposals were revealed in a BBC report on 20 August, after Newcastle-under-Lyme MP Adam Jogee raised concerns about the potential sale and the possibility of outsourcing firefighter training.
