On Saturday 20th September, as part of Heritage Open Days festival, our 204th blue plaque was unveiled at Gipton Fire Station on a very wet and windy evening – but that didn’t stop people coming out to celebrate!
We were welcomed with Leeds Civic Trust cupcakes (very much appreciated in the rain), and the evening began with a speech from Leeds Civic Trust Chair Jenna Strover. We also heard from Pip Goff, Chair of The Old Fire Station, and Coralie, who helps lead the local heritage group. Deputy Lord Mayor Barry Anderson gave a few words before unveiling the plaque.
The station first opened in 1937 to serve the growing estates of Gipton, Harehills, Seacroft and beyond. For nearly 80 years, its crews answered thousands of emergency calls, at one point, the highest number in the country, and supported people across Leeds, especially in times of crisis. Crews stationed here worked through the Blitz, two major fire service strikes, and countless emergencies. Firefighters lived on site, trained here, and built a strong sense of camaraderie that still lives on today.
When it closed in 2015, there was a real risk the building would be lost. But thanks to the vision of local charities, Space2, Zest, and GIPSIL, and funding through Leeds Community Foundation and the late Jimi Heselden OBE, it was brought back to life. Now, it’s a thriving community centre, offering everything from health services and classes to social events, support groups and a popular café. Six charities are based here, all working to support people facing real challenges.

Importantly, the fire station’s history hasn’t been forgotten. The building still holds its original character, fireman poles, old pumps, even the tiles and the stories of those who served are kept alive through events, guided tours, and displays. This Blue Plaque is a celebration not just of the building, but of the people past and present who’ve made it such a special part of East Leeds.
After the unveiling, we were treated to the premiere of Trailblazing, a new one-woman play that uses oral histories to tell stories of Yorkshire’s women firefighters.
The plaque was sponsored by the Heselden Family through Jimbo’s Fund, administered by Leeds Community Foundation.
Thanks to everyone who came along and made it such a special evening despite the weather!