Isle of Wight and Hampshire Fire Services Set for Big Shake-Up
The Isle of Wight Council has launched a 12-week consultation on merging the Island’s fire authority with Hampshire’s. The Cabinet has signed off on a detailed business case and plans to gauge public and stakeholder opinion this summer.
What’s Happening?
- The consultation will question unions, town and parish councils, and Isle of Wight residents.
- It runs alongside a similar process in Hampshire.
- A full report on the findings will land early next year.
The Proposal
If approved, the new combined fire authority will unite Isle of Wight’s fire governance – currently managed by the council – with Hampshire Fire Authority, covering Portsmouth and Southampton too.
The proposal goes to Full Council after consultation and then back to Cabinet for approval. The final thumbs-up rests with the Secretary of State.
Why Change Now?
“Our plan is to get the consultation started ASAP and share full details on how people can share their views,” said Councillor Tig Outlaw, Cabinet member for public protection.
“This is the next step after years of a strategic partnership with Hampshire, which enhanced capacity, expertise, and career opportunities for our firefighters.”
“No immediate changes to fire and rescue operations are planned,” he added.
Possible Benefits
The detailed business case highlights key advantages:
- Greater service capacity and resilience
- Improved community and business safety initiatives
- Better efficiency, effectiveness, and economic savings
With the current strategic partnership due to end in 2020, the new combined authority could safeguard the future of fire services on the Island.
Residents have a vital chance to weigh in on this crucial local safety issue during the summer consultation.
