Understand
New RNLI lifeboat station opens in Wandsworth to improve response times
Overview
The RNLI has opened its first new base on the River Thames in 24 years, replacing the former Chiswick station with a larger facility in Wandsworth. The £4m station, funded entirely through donations, aims to provide faster response times to areas of high demand and has already helped save lives within days of opening.
Key points
- The RNLI has opened a new lifeboat station at Wandsworth Riverside, replacing the former base in Chiswick.
- The new facility is closer to areas of high demand, such as Putney, enabling faster launch times.
- The station cost £4m and was funded entirely through donations.
- It features 10 times the floor space of the Chiswick operation, including training facilities, a kit room, and crew rest areas.
- The base supports 66 volunteers and 10 permanent staff.