£4.8 million investment brings 12 new fire engines to West Sussex
New fire engines aim to improve safety and reduce emissions
A £4.8 million investment by West Sussex County Council will see the addition of 12 new fire engines to West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.
These vehicles come equipped with advanced technology, including a clean-cab design to minimize firefighters' exposure to contaminants, and lower emissions, supporting the council's goal to reach net carbon neutrality by 2030.
This fire engine purchase is part of a broader £19.3 million investment, incorporating the construction of Platinum House in Horsham – a modern training centre and fire station.
Under its current Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP), West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has implemented several initiatives, such as extending fire station staffing to seven days a week, introducing new emergency response standards, and enforcing a call challenge policy since December 2022 to reduce false alarms at non-domestic business establishments.
The service has provided over 22,000 Safe and Well Visits since April 2022, offering essential safety support to vulnerable individuals. Additionally, more than 4,000 risk-based inspection audits of local businesses have been completed as part of the CRMP.
Councillor Duncan Crow, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, emphasised the importance of the investment, stating, “This significant investment highlights our commitment to protecting our communities and keeping people safe. The achievements delivered through the current CRMP demonstrates the critical role West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service plays in protecting residents. The new fire engines will enable the service to continue delivering an effective emergency response while also contributing to our environmental targets.”
Chief Fire Officer Gary Ball reflected on the progress made: “Reaching the end of our current CRMP gives us a valuable opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made as a service. This investment in new fire engines demonstrates our continued commitment to providing our crews with modern and safe appliances. Combined with the opening of Platinum House, improved crewing models and emergency response standards, and strengthening the leadership and culture of the service, we are in a strong position to continue serving West Sussex.”