Fire station location a concern
• The Derby Fire Station is being left in the centre of the new tourism hub sparking major concerns for access and safety when the site is unveiled in the coming weeks. Image Flow MTB.
February 22, 2023
By Taylor Clyne
The exciting redevelopment opposite the trail head in Derby is about to reopen and with it sparks concerns regarding the Derby Fire Station and its accessibility once the tourism hub is pumping full of people, bikes and cars.
The location, or better, lack of relocation of the fire station has been a topic of conversation for many years following the success of the biking mecca.
Once the $800,000 of funding was announced for the redevelopment of the old Derby Depot site it was assumed the station would too be relocated to a less busy, safer and easier to access location on the outskirts of town.
Mayor Greg Howard said options have been considered with the government to relocate the emergency services branch to a far more user friendly location.
“Now that Derby has become a biking and tourism focus the need to move the fire station has become a priority and we would encourage the minister and the Department to fast track the proposal,” he said.
The land that houses the station at 99 Main Street Derby holds a current lease between landowners Dorset Council and the State Fire Commission.
This is a 50-year lease arrangement that commenced on August 1, 1988.
“At the time the lease was signed there was only the council depot and fire station located in that area and no idea for the reboot of Derby had been muted,” Mayor Howard said.
“It was a light industrial area and now it’s a tourist park with a pump track, picnic tables and shade sails, showers, toilets, a main stage, camping and more.
“It’s certainly a safety concern if someone parks in the way of the stations access and they are a long way up a trail, the repercussions could be tragic.
“As we know people don’t always follow directions or signs so it’s really leaving safety up to chance,”
he said.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Felix Ellis said a new fire station has been identified as a priority as part of planning for future capital requirements.
“The Tasmanian Fire Service constantly reviews capital priorities and budgets based on operational needs and risk, and the Derby Fire Station is being considered as part of this work.
“In the meantime, the State Fire Commission is working closely with Council and Brigade members to assess any challenges with access and egress of the Derby fire truck once the Derby redevelopment opens to the public.
“I would also like to remind all motorists of the importance of obeying signage at all emergency service buildings in relation to parking.”
Mr Ellis said there was a considerable amount of program of work to be undertaken, which includes prioritisation assessment, community engagement and site consideration.
A move which is unlikely to eventuate anything in the near future.