Fire service consults on plans to merge stations

Proposed changes to Isle of Wight fire services come after the announcement of a new fire station in East Cowes

A fire service has revealed plans to merge and close stations which "are not required or currently used".

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has launched a public consultation on potential changes to services on the island.

It comes after the announcement of a new fire station in East Cowes.

The proposed changes are part of the service's safety plan for 2025-30, outlining its goals for the next five years.

The plan is created by looking at different risks in communities, their potential impact and how the service could adapt to address them. 

In a statement, the service says it has identified ways to "rationalise operational response on the Isle of Wight".

It has unveiled plans to combine Yarmouth and Freshwater fire stations, which would mean two fire engines could operate in the west of the island.

There are also proposals to stop operational responses from Bembridge fire station.

'We will continue to be there'

The statement explained: "There has been no response from Bembridge since 2020 due to lack of available on-call firefighters.

"During this time, Ryde fire station received investment to increase staffing to a full-time crew."

The public consultation on plans will run until 29 July and there will also be community events to discuss the proposals in Bembridge and Yarmouth.

The changes come as the fire service is testing the removal of less frequently used fire engines in four on-call stations in Romsey, Waterlooville, Petersfield and Lymington.

There are also plans to introduce a new vehicle which would mean a reduction in 20 firefighter posts across Redbridge and Cosham, but the service has explained this would not result in redundancies.

Chief fire officer, Neil Odin, said: "We are looking to make changes because we need to ensure that we have a modern, fit for purpose and efficient fire service.

"The changes are about having the right resources in the right place to meet the identified risks in our communities. Public safety will always be our priority and, if you need us, we will continue to be there quickly, with the right people, vehicles and equipment."