Mel Stride MP visited Ashburton Fire Station on Friday (20/09/19) to for further talks with fire officers about how to keep the station open. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority are proposing what they describe as the biggest shake-up of their operation in five decades with three fire stations in Central Devon set to be affected but only Ashburton targeted for closure. One of the arguments used to justify the decision is the close proximity of fire stations in Bovey Tracey and Buckfastleigh. Mel visited the station shortly after the proposals were announced and visited again ahead of the community demonstration on Saturday which saw many turn out to support the station. Mel said:
“There are several reasons why this closure is wrong and working with local fire station personnel I am taking the arguments directly to the fire authority. I am continuing to work closely with local fire officers and the wider community to challenge these proposals and to work towards keeping our station open.”
During the meeting Mel updated Crew Manager Don Distin and other officers on discussions he had held with Authority’s Chief Fire Officer and Devon County Council Chair the previous week where he pressed for more detail on the 10-minute response standards for Ashburton and for more information on Preventative and Protection measures. He also asked for clarity on the alternative options being considered for fire station staff. Mel added:
“It was very useful to meet with Don and members of his team again today. Our discussions will inform my submission to the consultation and my further approaches to the fire authority.”
