Fire stations not equipped for needs, report says

Work is already under way to address "shortfalls in compliance" at Whitehaven Fire Station

Plans are in place to upgrade several fire stations after a report revealed many sites were "not equipped" for the needs of a modern service.

A report by Cumbria Commissioner Fire and Rescue Authority said that there had been "little investment" in the fire service estate in Cumbria for a significant period.

Work is planned or under way at 10 sites and will be completed during this year and into early 2026, a report from the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner also said.

It would address gaps in compliance, repair maintenance defects and improve the condition and layout of the buildings.

The report said: "A key theme of the works is improving facilities to provide accommodation which meets the needs of equality, gender and inclusion."

Design work is complete at several sites including Alston, Barrow, Longtown, Silloth, and Windermere stations.

A scheme has been designed for Coniston, but is on hold while an "operational review" of the vehicle appliance bay is ongoing.

In February, work started at Whitehaven Fire Station to improve welfare facilities and address "shortfalls in compliance and condition".

According to the report, work using a local contractor was "going well" and on track for completion in July.

The police, fire and crime panel approved measures to raise the council tax precept for the fire service by 5.3% when it met on 31 January, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The proposed increase will mean a band D council taxpayer will pay £4.95 more for the fire service in the upcoming financial year.

According to documents prepared by the Cumbria Commissioner Fire and Rescue Authority, the rise will generate £18.6m for the service.