New fire station for Whitchurch-Stouffville could open in late 2026
By Steve Pecar, Local Initiative reporter
Whitchurch-Stouffville residents are getting their first look at the design of the town’s newest fire station.
The preliminary plans for the new Station 5-2 were revealed recently and show the concept of the structure that will be located on Aurora Road just west of Highway 48 in Ballantrae. It will replace the existing Station 5-2 which will be sold off once the new station becomes operational.
A combined project of the town and York Region, the $9.75 million project will jointly house the fire station along with Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
Initial estimates have the station opening in late 2026.
In a presentation to town councillors, Chris Kubbinga of Thomas Brown Architects said a joint-use facility has many benefits including cost savings as well as allowing firefighters and paramedics to work closely together when responding to emergencies.
Other benefits, he said, are easy access to a major road which will help the emergency vehicles to navigate and merge into traffic.
“That also has a benefit to the surrounding community because it means the trucks won’t be disruptive from a noise perspective,” Kubbinga told councillors. “They won’t have to come out with their sirens blaring to alert traffic.”
He said the northern part of the property will remain naturalized to act as a buffer to neighbouring residential properties.
As for the building, it will be able to accommodate two ambulances along with the larger space that will house three bays for fire trucks and all the firefighting equipment. It will also provide office space and living quarters for the firefighters on duty.
“It will be a full-time, 24-hours a day, seven days a week facility,” Kubbinga said.
As far as the actual look, Kubbinga said it will have the look of a traditional industrial-type heritage building with a brick façade that he said blends in well with the community.
Ward 6 Councillor Sue Sherban said she was pleased with the concept of the building, especially since it embraces sustainable concepts in terms of energy and environmental design.
“What we do here today will affect the generations of the future and I believe we need to lead by example,” said Sherban at the meeting.
Kubbinga said the design is being finalized and will soon be put to tender to find a builder.
Photo: Whitchurch-Stouffville residents are getting their first look at the design of the town’s newest fire station. (Town photo)