Thursday, June 03 2010
Fire & Rescue Consultation
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is preparing to consult with residents and businesses across the county regarding its draft Service Plan for 2011-12. The consultation process starts on 19th July 2010 and closes on 8th October 2010. It has issued the following announcement.
A consultation is now taking place aimed at making sure our Fire & Rescue Service has the resources it needs to continue keeping West Sussex safe.
County Fire Officer Max Hood has stressed the proposals are about improving services although there will be a budget saving.
Max said, “Planning how best to use our resources, particularly in these uncertain economic times, has never been so important. We must concentrate on the areas of greatest need, and always seek more efficient and effective ways of working in order to achieve good value for money for the local community”.
The proposals follow extensive research, and would mean changes to some fire stations, personnel, and appliances.
But, they include significant investment in training and facilities for our firefighters, as well as a faster response in parts of the county pinpointed by sophisticated ‘risk mapping’ such as large urban and industrial areas.
A modern fire service is not just about answering 999 calls, and the proposals also include strengthening the wide-ranging work the Service does in the community to prevent fires in the first place.
The consultation will run from July 19th to October 8th to ensure all interested parties have the opportunity to comment before any decisions are made.
The proposals are contained in the draft Service Plan for 2011-12 and copies are available in all libraries, District & Borough Council offices, and on request from Fire Service HQ.
The plan and all its supporting documents can also be viewed on the County Council website www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire and you can take part in the consultation via public meetings or submit your views
Via email
fire.redesign@westsussex.gov.uk
By telephone
Fire Redesign Team 01243 753706
In writing
Ian Coleman
Fire Redesign Team
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service HQ
Northgate
Chichester
West Sussex
PO19 1BD