Call to save rural fire stations from cuts
Fire stations across Ayrshire are set for an uncertain future as service chiefs get set for a major shake- up.
Plans to close stations and cut firefighter numbers were made public last week, and an Ayrshire MSP is lobbying to make sure our stations escape cuts.
South of Scotland member Brian Whittle said: “While it’s important that our fire service is fit for the 21st century, I’m wary of any proposal if it involves reducing the number of stations in rural areas.
“Retained stations in places like Mauchline, Colmonell, Girvan, Maybole, Dalmellington, Cumnock and New Cumnock play an important role in protecting their local area.
“Being able to get to the scene of fires and other emergencies quickly can make all the difference.”
Papers circulated to senior figures within the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were leaked to the press last week.
P ro b l e m s a round recruiting on- call rural firefighters have led to as many as 100 fire engines sitting idle when they could be used elsewhere, according to Chief Officer Alasdair Hay.
Conservative MSP Mr Whittle added: “I’ll be writing to the head of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the responsible minister within the Scottish Government to clarify their plans and emphasise the importance of ensuring that response times for rural communities don’t suffer as a result of any changes.”