Sleaford's original fire station was built at 19 Water Gate in 1829. It was rebuilt c.1900. It became a library in the second half of the 20th century. It was built on a triangular site backing onto the river Slea. It is red brick with stone dressings and a facade to the street, with two large arched openings at the ground floor. There are symmetrical windows on the first floor. There is a fire tower at the east end with a bell in the top with a fire escape ladder. {1} A horse slipway leading to the river is still visible next to the fire station. This allowed the horse-drawn engines to be backed down to the river to collect water before being sent to tackle a fire. {2}