Fire service 'is safe with us', Norfolk County Council insists
Norfolk County Council has insisted the fire service is safe under its management, despite calls to transfer it to the office of the police and crime commissioner (PCC).
Last week, PCC Lorne Green launched a public consultation on the issue after a draft business case claimed a switch could save the public purse millions of pounds.
But the county council has now published its own report detailing why it thinks the current arrangements should remain in place.
The 11-page document includes a commitment to keep all the county's 42 fire stations open and continue investment in up to date equipment.
It also argues that the service is already one of the most efficient in the country.
Margaret Dewsbury, chairman of the authority's communities committee, which oversees the fire service, said: “Having considered the PCC’s business case, we are strongly of the view that Norfolk Fire & Rescue service should continue to be run by Norfolk County Council.
“The risks far outweigh any potential operational or financial benefits. So much more would be gained by working together better. I’d like to encourage the people of Norfolk to take the time to consider the business case and respond to the public consultation.
“Throughout June and early July we’ve seen a huge volume of calls and incidents due to the hot weather, including 60 on one day when the usual average is 20.
“Our fire and rescue service frequently demonstrates that they have the resilience and tools to cope and that the current arrangement works well. We are confident that the service is efficient, effective and economic.
“You only need to look at the level of respect received from the local community to see how well-loved Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service truly is. Such trust is priceless and shows that Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service is in safe hands.”
Mr Green has argued that moving management to his office could save up to £10 million over 10 years and improve collaboration between the services.
He also insists he is not interested in a merger and the fire service would retain operational and financial independence.
But union leaders have branded the plan a "hostile takeover" and hundreds have already signed an online petition against the idea.
Mr Green's public consultation, called A Case for Change, will run until September 5.
People can have their say online at www.norfolk-pcc.gov.uk by phoning 01953 424455, emailing TellLorne@norfolk.pnn.police.uk or writing to OPCCN, Building 8, Jubilee House, Falconers Chase, Wymondham NR18 0WW.
