Sussex fire services merger put to public consultation

Government approval would be needed for a merger

The merger of East and West Sussex Fire and Rescue Services is to be the subject of a public consultation, it has been announced.

East Sussex Fire Authority and West Sussex County Council began exploring options for closer working in December.

A business case found in favour of a merger to protect the service from the pressures on public spending.

The public consultation will take place between 14 July and 6 October, before a final decision is made.

Government approval would be needed for a merger which would not come into effect before April 2013.

Councillor Pete Bradbury from West Sussex County Council said: "The views of the public are important to us and I hope residents, businesses, organisations and stakeholders will participate in the consultation.

"No decision will be made until the results of the consultation have been considered."