Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue extends public consultation

A public consultation into the future of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue has been extended until the end of next week.

The consultation is asking the public to provide feedback on proposals to manage the service in the light of cuts of 17% to its government grant. The cut means savings of £5.5m need to be found.

The proposals include a reduction in some full-time crewed engines and stations to on-call arrangements in Torbay, Plymouth, Ilfracombe and Taunton.  Service bosses say that safety would not be compromised.

The consultation had been due to finish on 22nd April after a number of public meeting events around the region. One such event in Torbay last night highlighted local opposition to cuts in frontline fire fighting services. A petition in Torbay has also raised significant opposition.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) have spoken out strongly against the cuts.

You can find the proposal document on line here and details of the 'Have Your Say' consultation can be found on the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue website.