Oxfordshire Firefighters Rally Against Proposed Service Cuts

Firefighters in Oxfordshire have mobilized to protest against proposed changes that could significantly impact fire services across the county. The protestors are voicing their concerns over plans that include relocating crews from larger fire stations, closing three stations, and removing the on-call fire engine from Oxford’s Rewley Road. These changes are part of a public consultation being conducted by Oxfordshire County Council, which will run until January 20, 2024.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Mike Adcock emphasized that “no decisions” have been finalized regarding the proposed cuts. He assured that the feedback from both residents and firefighters would be taken into account during the consultation process. The current proposal aims to establish five day-shift fire engines located in Wallingford, Faringdon, Witney, Bicester, and Chipping Norton.

The plan also includes the withdrawal of the on-call fire engine from Rewley Road due to reported low staffing levels. Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall stated that the daytime period represents the busiest time for the service. By reallocating resources to these five locations, he believes it will enhance response times across the region.

MacDougall explained, “Data showed this would result in better response times to the whole of Oxfordshire.” The intention behind these shifts is to optimize the deployment of fire engines where they are most needed during peak hours.

Opposition to these plans has been vocal among firefighters and union leaders. General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union Steve Wright issued a stark warning, stating, “Oxfordshire County Council is threatening further cuts that, if implemented, will put lives at risk across the county.” He urged the council to abandon what he called “dangerous plans” and instead seek necessary funding from central government to maintain essential services.

The implications of these proposed changes extend beyond just operational adjustments. They raise concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of fire response in a region that has seen a rising demand for emergency services.

The ongoing consultation process will allow local residents to express their views and contribute to discussions about the future of fire services in Oxfordshire. As the deadline approaches, many are urging the council to reconsider the potential consequences of service cuts on the community’s safety and well-being.