Hampshire fire service plans major spending increase for 2026/27
Local resources to support vehicle and building investments
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service will significantly boost its spending in the year 2026/27, with a capital programme valued at £24.42 million, more than double the previous year's expenditure.
The investment will focus on vehicles, buildings, and equipment, according to the authority's chief financial officer, Rob Sarfas.
An allocation of £10.5 million is earmarked for vehicles, while £12.09 million will go toward the estates programme.
Additionally, funds will be set aside for projects, including £1.39 million for carbon reduction and £98,000 for Basingstoke Fire Station.
The financial plan was discussed during the authority meeting on 28th July, where Mr Sarfas highlighted the absence of capital grant funding from central government, necessitating local resources such as reserves and borrowing to fund the expenditure.
The authority's reserves are set to drop significantly, with overall reserves expected to fall from £35.3 million at the end of March to around £10 million over the next two years due to infrastructure investments and equipment updates.
Mr Sarfas explained that reserves fall into two categories: planned expenditure funding and financial risk mitigation.
Councillor Paula Ferguson enquired about the minimum reserve levels, prompting Mr Sarfas to mention a review to evaluate planned capital priorities and his annual report obligation assessing reserve adequacy.
In response to earmarked reserves shrinking, Mr Sarfas recommended doubling the general reserve to five per cent of revenue expenditure to ensure financial stability while managing future risks.