Devon and Somerset Fire Service Considers Council Tax Hike
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority is weighing up whether to raise council tax to fund crucial services. Each year, they present options showing the impact of an increase — or none at all — on the fire service’s budget and operations.
Big Responsibility, Big Costs
Running independently from other local councils, the Fire Service sets its own budget, relying on government grants, council tax precepts, and business rates. They operate 83 fire stations with around 2,000 staff, safeguarding 1.7 million residents and thousands of visitors.
Each year, they respond to roughly 16,400 emergencies, from fires and traffic crashes to floods. Prevention efforts have ramped up, making homes and businesses safer by stopping incidents before they happen.
Modernising Stations and Investing in Safety
- Rebuilds at Brixham and Plymstock fire stations are underway, with Brixham set to open early 2021.
- Refurbishments at Wellington and Bridgwater stations will improve staff facilities.
- New investments planned for vehicles and increased firefighter recruitment aim to boost emergency response.
Community Input Urged on Council Tax Increase
Authority Chair Sara Randall Johnson said: “We want to make sure we give our communities the best service possible. We have ambitious plans to do this by focusing more on preventing incidents while making sure we have the right response available when emergencies do happen.”
“It’s important that people let us know which level of council tax is acceptable so that we can consider this when setting the level of council tax.”
The service costs about £43.91 per person annually. Currently, Band D properties pay £88.24 a year. The Authority is consulting residents on the council tax precept and service satisfaction.
Have your say before the consultation closes on 18 December 2020. Complete the survey online or call 01392 872347 for alternative formats.
