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Fire HQ Sale Sparks Outsourcing Fears
20 Aug
Summary
- Plans to sell Pirehill site raise concerns.
- Outsourcing firefighter training is being discussed.
- A new facility could be built elsewhere in Staffordshire.
Plans are being considered to sell the Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service's Pirehill headquarters, a move that has prompted concerns regarding the potential outsourcing of firefighter training and development. Newcastle-under-Lyme MP Adam Jogee has formally communicated these concerns to Staffordshire's Police, Crime, and Fire Commissioner, Ben Adams.
Commissioner Adams stated that he is in the initial stages of evaluating various options for the service's future. He indicated that selling the Pirehill site for housing or commercial purposes could generate funds to construct a new, contemporary facility elsewhere in Staffordshire. This strategic consideration is part of preparations for potential future local government reorganisations.
Furthermore, existing large-scale development projects in the vicinity of the Pirehill site may impact its future operations. Adams highlighted the practical challenges of maintaining a headquarters and training centre amidst significant construction, questioning potential access limitations.
