DEVON and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has announced controversial proposals for change to keep communities safe.
The service has announced possible changes in the way that it operates across Devon and Somerset and would undergo its most significant change for 50 years under new proposals announced today (Wednesday).
According to D&SFRS the six proposals seek to create more flexibility and capability to deliver targeted prevention and protection work to reach the most vulnerable members of society and help keep them safe.
Unfortunately two of the of the proposals would affect stations in the Teignbridge area.
The first option, which involves station closures, would see Ashburton Fire Station being closed, along with stations in Appledore, Budleigh Salterton, Colyton, Kingston, Porlock, Topsham and Woolacombe.
A fifth proposed option would affect Teignmouth Fire Station. Rather than take away the second fire engine it is proposed that the first fire engine is still crewed 24/7 with on call staff but the second fire engine is crewed at night. Stations also affected by this proposal include Brixham, Chard, Dartmouth, Frome, Honiton, Ilfracombe, Okehampton, Sidmouth, Tavistock, Tiverton, Wellington, Wells and Willton
Chief Fire Officer Lee Howell said: ‘We do understand that communities affected by these changes will want more information and we will be engaging with them in the coming months to listen to their views. This will also be a difficult time for the staff affected and we are committed to working with them to consider how we might provide options as we move forward.’
The proposals will be considered by Members of the Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Authority next week. Should the Authority agree, the proposals will then go forward for a 12 week public consultation from July 1 to 20 September.