Decision on Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Stations to be made

A decision on the future of four on-call fire stations in Wiltshire will be made today (June 30th) by the Fire and Rescue Authority.

Previously, the fire stations were at risk of closure to address a funding shortfall, prompting a public consultation from February to May that received responses from over 6,000 individuals.

The grant follows a business case presented to Downing Street focusing on improved training accessibility, decision making, and use of data and technology.

Despite this progress, Chief Fire Officer Andy Cole stated the importance of continued discussions and emphasised the service's need for greater precept flexibility.

DWFRS plans to apply for a rise of £8.77 next year, bringing the precept in line with the national average, equating to a change from about £1.86 to just over £2 weekly for Dorset and Wiltshire residents.

Cole remarked, "It's vital conversations continue despite the imminent threat of stations closing subsiding."

The additional funding has allowed Cole to adjust his advice to the Fire and Rescue Authority, now recommending the eight stations remain open alongside a modernisation programme to update the service.

Cole expressed optimism about the potential improved precept settlement, crediting the positive impact of public consultation and government discussions.

However, the application for a one-off precept increase requires approval from Government and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, before it returns to a standard £5.

Cole noted possible deficits if funding reductions occur or if the precept rise fails, potentially leading to cuts in frontline services, as it is legally necessary for the Fire Service to maintain a balanced budget.

He extended gratitude to the public, staff, and local MPs who facilitated productive discussions with Government Ministers, expressing hope for securing a financially sustainable future.

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