The Brief
Bolster Building Design was engaged to prepare Development Application plans for a new State Emergency Service (SES) Depot and Control Centre for Stroud, for submission to Midcoast Council. The facility is intended to support the essential work of the SES by providing a fit-for-purpose building, associated carparking, and stormwater infrastructure, with a strong emphasis on community engagement and operational functionality.
Our Solution
The proposed layout includes a modern SES building tailored to operational needs, including vehicle bays, training and meeting spaces, equipment storage, and staff amenities. A well-planned carpark supports ease of access and vehicle manoeuvring, while a reconfigured stormwater drainage channel ensures the site performs well under varying conditions. To aid in community consultation, Bolster produced photomontages illustrating how the new facility would integrate with its surroundings and support community resilience.
The Challenges
The project required close collaboration with both Midcoast Council and the SES to balance site constraints with functional requirements. Achieving an optimal site layout involved careful planning around access, stormwater management, and operational flow. Bolster Building Design worked to ensure the proposed facility met both regulatory expectations and the practical needs of the SES volunteers who will use it.