One Week Left To Oppose Folkestone Fire Cuts

The public has just one week left in which to give its views on proposed changes to Kent Fire and Rescue Service.

In November the Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority (KMFRA) approved the new Integrated Risk Management Plan to go out for consultation with the public, staff, businesses and other key stakeholders. The cut off date for people to make their views known is this Friday, January 18.

The plan proposes drastic cuts at Folkestone Fire station:

• 24 full-time firefighters to go
• One fire engine to go
• Turntable ladder to go

Local firefighters, campaigners and the Shepway Liberal Democrats have helped lead the campaign against these plans. Folkestone Town Council has voted to oppose the cuts, and has been lobbying Fire Authority members to vote against the plan.

Members of the public can complete an on-line survey at www.kent.fire-uk.org or request a copy by emailing irmp@kent.fire-uk.org or telephoning 01622 692121. Everyone who responds will go into a draw to win a VIP visit to their local fire station.

For more information about the Authority's Integrated Risk Management Plan, go to www.kent.fire-uk.org and click on the 'Fit for the Future' link.