Wiltshire councillors unite to oppose fire station closures over safety concerns
Closure of eight fire stations raises civil defence capability issues
Wiltshire councillors have voiced opposition to a proposal by Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service to close eight fire stations—four each in Wiltshire and Dorset—due to cost concerns.
Cllr Pauline Church, representing Wilton, expressed alarm over the potential impact on the county's civil defence capability, noting past incidents like the Novichok nerve agent attack on Salisbury.
The decision rests with the Fire and Rescue Authority, comprised of 18 councillors from Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council, Dorset Council, and Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole Council.
Cllr Church highlighted the broad concerns over reduced emergency services and the pivotal role fire stations play in addressing fires, road traffic collisions, and other emergencies.
Cross-party support underscored the urgency of maintaining existing fire stations.
Liberal Democrat leader Ian Thorn emphasized the critical nature of response times in emergencies.
Conservative group leader Richard Clewer observed funding challenges due to cuts in rurality funding.
Reform group leader Ed Rimmer and Labour councillor Ricky Rogers echoed concerns over funding priorities, emphasizing public safety.
Paul Oatway, vice chairman of the fire authority, noted anticipated impacts on response times, particularly in rural areas.
Councillors reflected on personal experiences and underlined risks specific to Wiltshire, including climate-induced wildfires.
The motion demanded proactive steps, requesting the leader of Wiltshire Council to write to Minister Dame Diana Johnson for a Revenue Support Grant review to ensure financial sustainability.
It also called for communication with Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service to express opposition to the closure of Bradford-on-Avon, Mere, Ramsbury, and Wilton Fire Stations.
Supported by 87 councillors, with three abstentions, the motion reflects the resolve to safeguard the county’s emergency and civil defence capabilities.
More than 6,000 residents participated in a three-month public consultation, highlighting the community’s involvement in the issue.