Lack of numbers shuts Cowal fire station

Fire chiefs hope to welcoming more new recruits in September to boost the chances of a village fire station in Cowal becoming operational again, writes Colin Cameron.

Strachur is not currently in use because there are not enough firefighters to crew the appliance.

It means the closest fire station to the village is 19 miles away in Dunoon, a fact flagged up by a ward councillor at a community meeting.

At a virtual meeting of Argyll and Bute Council's community services committee on June 10, Councillor Alan Reid asked fire chiefs: ‘I am sure you are aware that Strachur fire station is not operational at the moment, despite there being more than enough volunteers in the village to fulfil the requirements. What steps are being taken to get it operational again, and when do you expect this to be achieved?’

Greg McKearney, station manager with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, said: ‘Obviously it is something that is foremost in our minds and I quite understand the pressing concerns from people in Strachur.

‘It is a pressing concern for us as well.

‘The first thing I would say is that unfortunately we don’t have sufficient crew to operate the appliance for Strachur. That is why the decision was taken to suspend operations.

‘Currently we have three members of crew within the unit, when it is required that there are four to ensure the safety of firefighters and communities.

‘We are hopeful interested parties can be welcomed into the station towards the end of September.’

Secretary of Strachur Community Council Iain Wilkie said: ‘The Strachur volunteers responded to a total of 34 shouts in 2019, so it’s obvious Strachur fire station is needed. This is an opportunity for men and women aged 18 and over to serve their community. Parttime firefighters are paid and receive paid training.

‘If you’re interested in making an important contribution to the well-being of your area and beyond, contact Alistair MacKechnie.’