The former Mines Rescue Station on Leeming Lane South, Mansfield Woodhouse, is unveiling a new look. 

As part of the company’s continued growth, Mines Rescue Service -— now rebranded as MRS Training & Rescue — has worked closely with Mansfield District Council to agree a fresh identity for the building, which has adapted older spaces for modern needs. 

Since the Mines Rescue Station first opened in February 1958, its appearance has remained largely unchanged and most local people will be familiar with the fire station-style doors that have always adorned the front of the building.

It was purpose-built to serve the coal mining industry but, despite the deep mines closing, the company has expanded and diversified to meet the needs of today’s health and safety market. 

Branching out from underground mining it now provides health and safety related products, training and services to a wide range of industries.  

The investment in the Mansfield centre includes the creation of three new classrooms and removing the old ‘fire station’ doors.

This follows a record year for the business, which recorded a 30% increase in profit and a 11% increase in staff numbers.

John Mowbray, operations manager, MRS Training & Rescue in Mansfield, said: “This is a significant investment for our business, most especially during the challenging times the pandemic has brought.

“We have been fortunate to buck the economic trend over the last 12 months and have remained fully operational, helping to support our clients who work in business-critical industry.

“Modernising the building was necessary, but its history still matters. It’s important we tell the story of what it once was, so we are creating a timeline to preserve its local history and its transformation through the years.

“We would like to thank Mansfield District Council for the opportunity to revitalise this building and support us with the project.”

Hayley Barsby, chief executive of the council added: “The council was pleased to approve the planning application to revitalise the building. 

“The Mines Rescue Service played an important part in Mansfield’s past and this revived building can continue to be used to support Mansfield businesses in the future.”

For more information on the centre go to www.mrsl.co.uk/training-centre/nottingham