Clapham Depot

The existing CRO Depot, at Clapham, was purchased in the mid-‘70s. In the 19th century it was an Inn in its own right. Later it became the coach-house and stables for the New Inn, to which it is adjacent. When CRO moved in there were a number of alterations carried out to make it suitable for the team's purposes. Subsequently, various internal changes were made reflecting the changing needs of the Organisation.

With the increase in the amount of equipment over the years, and an increase in the range of rescues that CRO attends, in 2008 the Depot was judged to be cramped and inefficient. Ideally, CRO would have liked a new purpose built facility (like some nearby teams), but finances would not run to that, even if much more time and effort were to be devoted to fundraising. The Team therefore decided to extend the building during 2009 to provide better facilities.

The work is now complete - ready for the 75th Anniversary celebrations this year.

Amongs many donations which helped CRO undertake this work were:

• Wenning Lodge of Freemasons, which was responsible for securing funding from the West Riding Masonic Charities
• A bequest from Mr Jack Myers
• The designs (prepared at no charge by Bowman Riley Architects of Skipton)

On the ground floor, the extension has increased the garage space, providing room for several equipment trailers (now stored elsewhere), while maintaining the parking area for the vehicles. 

On the first floor, the extension has provided a new control room suite, enabling the old control room and storage spaces to be converted to a Lecture Room that can accommodate the whole team. A double height rope training space has been created in the triangle between the new offices and the meeting room. 

From the front, the building looks much the same (see the photo below of the Depot before extension). The continuity of appearance is important in the Conservation Area of Clapham village within the National Park. The National Park Planning Authority were sympathetic to CRO's requirements, recognising the essential service that the Team provide. Discussions with the Planning Officer quickly led to a viable proposal and Planning Permission.

Work started on 11th May 2009, and was complete at the end of September. Costs increased since the original estimates, especially with the discovery of asbestos, which was removed by a specialist contractor. The overall cost is in excess of £100,000, so any donations will still be gratefully received.

Bill Quinton RIBA

The Depot as it was before the extension