Archived decisions

HAMPSHIRE FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE AND THE ISLE OF WIGHT FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE - CONSULTATION ON POSSIBLE MERGER

The Hampshire Fire and Rescue Authority has agreed to begin a public consultation on the possible merger of the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service. It follows on from the Comprehensive Performance Assessment (CPA) carried out last year and a recommendation by the Department of Communities and Local Government to explore greater collaboration between the two services. This resulted in an independent review of future arrangements which has recently been completed. The consultant engaged to co-ordinate the review suggests strong evidence that merger of the two services under an expanded combination scheme will have considerable benefits for both communities. The Isle of Wight is similarly consulting the public and other stakeholders on the Island about the option of merger. Consultation commenced in October, 2006 and will run for twelve weeks before a final decision is made by the Authority next February. Members have indicated that they will wish to fully debate at that time the financial and other relevant issues in the light of the results of the consultation which are received.