Plans to Close Rural Fire Stations Are Shelved
Plans to close four rural fire stations have been dropped after extensive campaigning against the proposal.
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) had earmarked Mere, Ramsbury, Bradford on Avon and Wilton stations for closure because of financial pressures. The proposed rural fire station closures had prompted significant campaigning against the plans.
But earlier this month, a change in plans meant only Wilton was recommended for closure, and that has now also been shelved.
Chief Fire Officer Andy Cole said £1.8m of additional government funding has been secured but that it “does not resolve the authority’s long-term financial position and we continue to face a deficit in future years”.
DWFRS has said the latest financial settlement from the government is not enough for the service to keep running as it currently is. Keeping all stations open is dependent on the following conditions being met:
- The service is given flexibility to raise the council tax precept in 2027/28.
- There are no further reductions in funding from Government.
Rural Fire Station Closures Remain a Financial Concern
Although the proposed closures have been shelved, DWFRS continues to face financial pressures that could affect the future of its fire station network.
The additional £1.8m in government funding provides support, but the service has warned that it does not resolve its long-term financial position and that it continues to face a deficit in future years.
The decision to retain the stations highlights the importance of maintaining suitable fire service facilities and infrastructure while services manage ongoing financial challenges. Investment in fire stations, refurbishment and operational facilities remains an important consideration for fire and rescue services across the UK.
Dave Roberts, from the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) South West, said: “We are not out of the woods yet, but this is a big step forward”.
The future of the stations will continue to depend on government funding decisions and the financial position of Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.
For more information please visit Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service website.