The Scotch Creek-Lee Creek Fire Hall will be rebuilt on a different property purchased by the regional district.

Since the fire hall's destruction in the 2023 Bush Creek East wildfire, the to replace the structure at 3852 Squilax-Anglemont Road, that also served as a community centre. 

In a Tuesday, Nov. 26 media release, the CSRD announced the hall would be rebuilt on a different, larger property located at 1435 Beatty Road.  

The regional district described the new "pie-shaped property" as being nearly twice the size of the previous location, and that it allows for "potential future expansion of the fire hall, as well as better placement of the building."

"The new property has access points off both Beatty Road and Squilax Anglemont Road, which is an advantage for moving fire trucks on the site. It is also slightly closer to the community of Lee Creek," said the CSRD, which paid $350,000 for the new property. 

The regional district said the new fire hall will have a different design, but "will incorporate the same elements as the previous one," including space for fire trucks, gear storage and a training room, which could be used for community events.

鈥淚n the short term, we will be building back what we had before, but the new site will have potential for future expansion as the community grows,鈥� said Derek Sutherland, general manager of community and protective services. 鈥淲e are pleased to be moving forward with rebuilding plans.鈥�

Construction costs for the new facility will be primarily covered by fire insurance on the old building. The CSRD said no decision has been made for what to do with the former fire hall property, and that "If it is not deemed useful for CSRD purposes, the lot may be declared surplus, and the property could be sold to offset the cost of the new purchase."

Proposals for the design and build of the new building are currently being evaluated before a contract is awarded. Construction of the new fire hall is anticipated to begin in 2025.