Potential merger of fire services takes a small step closer

The two fire services initially announced plans to examine options for ‘closer collaboration’ in December 2010.

Alternatives were discussed at a meeting held by East Sussex Fire Authority on March 17, and by West Sussex County Council at its Cabinet meeting on March 22.

At both meetings it was agreed that the options being considered should be narrowed down to just two. Either a formal collaboration between the two services or a full-scale merger to create a new Fire Authority covering West Sussex, East Sussex and Brighton and Hove.

Closer collaboration aims to streamline back office functions, improve operational resilience and preserve frontline services to the public whilst taking into consideration grant reductions both organisations have to absorb.

Work will now continue to develop a full business case for discussion by both organisations in June this year.

If a full merger is the favoured option, a 12-week public consultation period will take place before final decisions are made.

Representatives for East Sussex Fire Authority and West Sussex County Council appear to be in favour of the two services working closer together.

Cllr Ted Kemble, Chairman of East Sussex Fire Authority, said: “I think it is right that both services are exploring the potential benefits of closer working, with the aim of providing the residents and council taxpayers of West Sussex, East Sussex and the City of Brighton and Hove with a stronger Fire and Rescue Service.”

A spokesman for East Sussex Fire Brigade Union said the proposed merger is something that has been under discussion for many years, adding: “Until we see the full business case it’s difficult to comment but we have been assured that, if a merger were to take place, there won’t be any station closures or loss of personnel.”