More than 740 people have expressed opposition to proposed reductions in overnight fire and rescue service cover at Cheltenham West fire station.
The Gloucestershire County Council is considering plans to reduce the 24-hour cover at Cheltenham West to whole-time day crew only. This change forms part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening fire cover across the Forest of Dean, where whole-time day cover would be increased at Cinderford Fire Station.
On 22 July, the council’s cabinet approved an eight-week public consultation period regarding these proposals. The plans are grounded in independent analysis and data modelling, which suggest that switching to day crew cover at Cinderford could lead to operational and community safety benefits, including faster response times, more fire prevention efforts, and a stronger presence within the community.
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According to the council, overlapping response coverages, the proximity of neighbouring fire stations, and relatively low overnight demand indicate that resources would be more effectively utilised by shifting crews to Cinderford during the day rather than maintaining overnight cover at Cheltenham West. Under the proposals, Cheltenham West would retain whole-time day crew staffing, while Cheltenham East would maintain its 24-hour cover.
However, a petition led by Kate Yhnell, Gloucestershire organiser of the Fire Brigades Union, has garnered 741 signatures opposing the removal of night-time cover at Cheltenham West Fire Station. The petition warns that such cuts could jeopardise public safety.
“The safety of our community in Cheltenham is at risk,” the petition states. “With tens of thousands of new houses being built near Cheltenham and a new M5 junction opening, cutting night-time cover at Cheltenham West is not just inconvenient; it’s dangerous and potentially deadly.”
The petition highlights that reducing fire appliances available at night would stretch already stretched resources thinner, potentially leading to longer response times in emergencies. It emphasises the crucial role of the Cheltenham West fire station in protecting the community, especially as the population grows with new residential developments.
“Every community deserves reliable and efficient fire cover at all times,” the petition argues, calling on council leaders to reconsider the plans and prioritise investment in public safety.
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service Chief Fire Officer Mark Preece stated that the proposals are designed to ensure resources are allocated where risk, demand, and community needs are greatest.
“Independent modelling shows opportunities to improve response times and increase prevention activities in the Forest of Dean, while maintaining effective fire cover across the county,” he said. “We encourage everyone with an interest in these proposals to participate in the consultation before any decisions are made.”
Further information about the council’s proposals and details on how to take part in the public consultation are available through official channels, alongside access to the petition.