Capital and Revenue - Capital Expenditure Plan
Capital Expenditure Plan
The Capital Plan has been developed in line with the corporate priorities as set out in the Safety and Wellbeing Plan. The main areas contained within the Capital Plan are detailed below:-
Building works - A programme of refurbishment and improvement works is in place to not only ensure that the Service and its operational bases remain fit for the future but also to improve efficiency and to enable the Authority to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. Major works are ongoing at the Ashford site which include a new Live Fire training facility. It is expected that the work will be completed towards the middle of 2025/26. Additional works across the estate for roofing replacements, boilers and heat pumps, solar panels and fuel tanks are also programmed up to 2027/28.
Vehicle replacements - There is a comprehensive long-term programme in place for the replacement of the operational fleet of fire engines and other vehicles, which is reviewed on a regular basis to determine any change in the numbers and types of vehicles that may be needed to facilitate operational capability. Another 34 self-charging hybrid vehicles are expected to be delivered in 2024/25 and another 10 in 2026/27. A further 44 new Rescue Pumps are expected to be delivered up to 2027/28. There are also a number of specialist vehicles that are planned for delivery up to 2027/28, such as a fleet of small and medium sized vans, bulk water carriers and Incident Command Units.
Information and Communication - Planned hardware upgrades to Mobile Data Terminals (MDTs) tablets for operational staff, satnav and mobile devices are currently scheduled for 2025/26. Plans are also in place to upgrade the printing capabilities in 2027/28.
Revenue Expenditure Plan
One-off expenditure in relation to premises, IT and operational equipment that does not meet the criteria for capitalisation is funded via the Infrastructure Revenue Plan.
Premises - There is a programme of climate works, security upgrades, and fire compartmentation works planned over the next few years. Work on the new Fleet workshop unit are scheduled to be undertaken in 2024/25.
IT - Significant IT investment is planned, including key internal support systems such as; the fleet and operational equipment management systems; operational response systems and; a review of the Command-and-Control system. Incident Command Units also require IT upgrades in 2025/26 and the replacement of Audio-Visual equipment, increased wireless access, mobile phone provision and data connectivity is also planned.
Equipment - There are plans to upgrade various items of operational equipment in the near future including Breathing Apparatus, PPV fans, Hand tools, ladders scene lighting and Thermal imaging cameras.