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Three high-rise tower blocks are set to play a key role in firefighter training before they are ripped down.
The three blocks in Sunderland will be used by Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) to support specialist high-rise fire safety exercises before they are demolished, with Gentoo and TWFRS working together on the initiative.
The training will take place in the Lambton, Londonderry, and Lumley Towers (known as the 3Ls) and will continue over the coming months as part of the final decant process.
The scheme will help TWFRS develop and test new firefighting procedures in tall buildings, addressing complex emergency scenarios in a realistic environment.
Leon Stephenson, head of fire and building safety at Gentoo, said: "Safety is our highest priority, and we're pleased to be able to support Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service with this important training opportunity.
"These buildings provide a unique environment for firefighters to train in realistic high-rise conditions before the towers are demolished.
"The exercises will help crews build on their skills, strengthen emergency response procedures and ultimately support the safety of people living in high-rise homes across the region."
All operational firefighters at TWFRS are expected to complete the training, which will cover ventilation techniques, stairwell protection, evacuation procedures and search strategies.
The exercises will also support incident command assessments, rescue and evacuation drills, the development of breathing apparatus competence, and improved interoperability across emergency response teams.
Graeme Taylor, station manager for operations at TWFRS, said: "These exercises provide a valuable opportunity for our firefighters to train in a realistic high-rise environment and explore new procedures under carefully controlled conditions.
"Working in partnership with Gentoo allows us to test, evaluate and refine our approach to complex incidents, helping to ensure our crews are prepared to respond effectively when it matters most.
"Training opportunities such as these support our commitment to learning, innovation and keeping our communities and firefighters safe."
The training will use both cosmetic and cold smoke-filled environments to simulate real-life conditions, helping to enhance operational preparedness and strengthen firefighters' skills in responding to incidents in high-rise residential buildings.
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It forms part of the final phase of activity at the former 3Ls buildings before demolition begins.
Mr Stephenson said: "By giving firefighters the opportunity to train in a real high-rise environment, we're helping to ensure they are even better equipped to respond effectively should an incident occur in any of our high-rise residential buildings.
"Ultimately, this partnership helps improve safety for our customers, colleagues and communities."