Delay to decision on fire service plans

It's after an overwhelming public response to the proposals

Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue has delayed a major announcement on the future of some of the county's stations.

A decision on how it operates has been moved to December, following a high response to a public consultation.

They received about 3,300 completed surveys on the proposals, which aim to reduce fire appliances and stations in areas of low risk and low activity

It could see seven stations in the county shut, which the authority says will 'bring an outdated service into the 21st Century'.

All responses are being independently analysed, which will then provide them with the findings from the consultation.

Due to the large amount of submissions and analysis needed, more time is need to thoroughly review the responses.

Because of this, the Authority meeting due to take place in early November, is now scheduled for Wednesday 18 December.

Chief Fire Officer Lee Howell said: “I’d like to thank the thousands of people who have taken the time to share their views through the consultation. It has been a great opportunity to openly discuss our challenges and proposed solutions with people across our two counties.

“I appreciate that moving the decision extends the uncertainty for our staff and communities who are affected by the proposals. We don’t take any proposals to close stations or remove fire engines lightly which is why it is vital that we take time to thoroughly analyse and carefully consider the responses.”