Two Isle Of Wight Fire Stations Face Closure After Key Vote

Controversial plans to shut two Isle of Wight fire stations have moved a step closer after being backed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire Authority.

At a meeting in Eastleigh on Friday (29 August), members supported proposals to close Bembridge and Yarmouth fire stations, as well as remove the Island’s aerial ladder platform. The move follows a public consultation, which has now closed.

However, cuts to frontline firefighter posts have been delayed for the time being.

Mark Chapman, regional secretary of the Fire Brigades Union (Southern Region), said the decision gives campaigners “extra time to fight for the funding we need” to prevent job losses.

Near the end of the meeting, Chief Fire Officer Neil Odin described the proposals as the “least worst option” given the service’s financial challenges.

He warned that “much more dire financial situations” could be faced in the future unless funding improves.

Mr Odin is handing over leadership to incoming chief fire officer Sabrina Cohen-Hatton.

A report presented to the Fire Authority said the service is facing a widening budget gap, with rising costs outstripping funding.

Proposed changes are expected to save around £2 million a year.

The approved plans include:

• Closing Bembridge Fire Station

• Merging Yarmouth and Freshwater fire stations at the Freshwater site

• Removing an aerial ladder platform from the Island

Decisions on other cost-cutting measures, including the introduction of a new heavy rescue vehicle and reductions to firefighter posts, were deferred.

Following the meeting, Mr Chapman said:

“If these cuts go through, response times and our ability to respond to emergencies will deteriorate, leaving homes and lives at greater risk.

"It’s time for MPs in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to push government to plug the gap. After 15 years of austerity, this fire and rescue service is on its knees.”