The existing Emergency Call Control Room was over 10 years old and due a renovation in addition to new systems upgrades. This led to TWFRS tendering the complete replacement of the control room furniture. Thinking Space were tasked with providing a new six-position, height-adjustable console for the control room. The U-shaped design replicated from the original layout allowed for the alignment with existing lighting, power and data infrastructure whilst offering a fresh new modern control room environment.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service is dedicated to safeguarding lives, property, and the environment through innovation, collaboration and excellence. Formerly known as the Tyne and Wear Metropolitan Fire Brigade, it is the fire and rescue service (FRS) for the metropolitan boroughs of Newcastle Upon Tyne, Gateshead, North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Sunderland, serving a population of over 1 million people across an area of 208 square miles. It has 17 fire stations and is responsible for the running of the service.

Thinking Space were invited to tender for the control room furniture upgrade. As the suppliers to Cleveland Fire Brigade, the neighbouring fire authority, Thinking Space had a fantastic reference site already using our height-adjustable consoles. During the tender process we concentrated on the key requirement to design a console that would align with the existing control room lighting, power and data infrastructure.

Thinking Space worked closely with the client to ensure the design fully incorporated the tender requirements and their specific needs. Our design team developed a tailored solution, including curved end panels featuring the fire service logo, while the project was overseen and coordinated by one of our experienced project managers to ensure smooth delivery.

During the design phase, the two-corner static section for the critical radio equipment was initially proposed as enclosed. Through collaborative discussions with the client, this was revised to be open, allowing staff to sit nearby during training and review sessions. This change, made before build at no additional cost, provided greater flexibility at the console.

The resulting six-person, U-shaped console eliminated the need for TWFRS to reposition lighting or reroute the power and data. Each worktop is independently height-adjustable at the touch of a button, and gas-assisted monitor arms allow easy screen positioning for operators. The material finishes were chosen by the client to provide a fresh, updated look in keeping with the refurbished room. The project successfully delivered a functional and flexible workspace that met the client’s requirements.

“Our Fire Control Room operates 24 hours a day, handles over 35,000 calls each year, and is at the heart of our emergency response. When we were designing the new control room, we had to address specific elements about the contents and layout of the space including need, application, accessibility, and comfort.

This is why our relationship with Thinking Space has been crucial. Their team listened to our intricate requirements and worked with us to design and deliver a solution that will serve us for the next 10 years. Despite an ambitious timeline, Thinking Space were able to deliver on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards, ensuring all milestones were met.”

Phil Clark, Area Manager for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS)