Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has updated proposals to improve emergency cover across the county, following discussions with a cross-party working group. 

The group was formed with the Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority (KMFRA), Fire Brigades Union (FBU) and Fire Officers’ Association, after it was agreed members required more time to explore the recommendations and consider any alternative proposals to increase daytime cover, based on risk intelligence and data analysis. 

Following the six-week extension, KFRS has today (29 July) published amended proposals. The initial plans had identified five standalone on-call fire stations for potential closure, but this has been reduced to four with the removal of Grain fire station, and now also includes a 12-month review period.

The plans will next be discussed at an extraordinary meeting of the KMFRA on Thursday, 6 August, when members will vote on launching a public consultation. 

If approved, residents in Kent and Medway will be encouraged to take part in an eight-week consultation, which includes proposals to:

• Relocate two fire engines at night – one from Dartford and one from Thames-Side - to create an additional three fire engines during the day, placed at stations across the county to meet daytime demand, which is higher than at night
• Close four standalone on-call fire stations, followed by a 12-month review to assess public impact and demand, when we would then determine if the buildings were sold or renewed for service - Wye, Chilham, Westerham and Cliffe
• Remove the on-call fire engine from four of our combined wholetime and on-call fire stations – Herne Bay, Deal, Faversham and Tunbridge Wells

Based on data and evidence, the key benefits of the proposals include:

• Stronger daytime emergency cover where it’s needed most
• Fewer under-used on-call fire stations
• The creation of additional wholetime firefighter roles
• Improved productivity and efficiency
• Financial savings to ease pressures

Any implemented changes would be subject to a formal review over the next three years.

KFRS’ Chief Executive Ann Millington said: “We have a commitment to help and protect the people we serve, and it’s a responsibility we are proud to hold and develop as risks continue to evolve.

“These proposals do not change our commitment to the public or our people; it’s about making sure we spend money effectively, based on evidence and risks, while competing with financial pressures.

“The welfare of our firefighters remains paramount in any considerations for forward-planning.  

“The amendments we’ve made to the proposals reflect a collaborative effort, including our crews, union representatives and the Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority.

“If a public consultation is agreed next week, we want to hear from as many Kent and Medway residents as possible. Your input will help us to make the most informed and effective decisions for the service and our communities.”

The extraordinary meeting of the Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority (KMFRA) on Thursday, 6 August will be a ticketed event, due to capacity.