Lanarkshire residents are being asked to give their views on the draft Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) local plan for the area. The eight-week public consultation is open until October 15, with the detailed plan and feedback form available online.
The plan sets out the service’s “proposed priorities and objectives for the area”, with the consultation seeking “to better understand the needs, challenges and risks facing local communities”. Residents and community groups are being encouraged to participate.
Area commander urges participation
Area commander Stephen Nesbit said: “We work closely with our communities and understand many of the issues that matter most to local people. However, we must continue to listen and give people the opportunity to share their views.
“We have already engaged with stakeholders to understand how well we are performing against our current priorities. Their feedback has helped inform our draft plan – we now want to hear from our communities and partners to ensure our proposed priorities reflect local needs and help us continue to improve the services we provide.”
Consultation process and background
SFRS officials say: “All responses received during the consultation period will be considered and used to help shape the final plan before it is submitted to the relevant local authority for approval.”
A service review concluded by the fire service earlier this year made permanent the decision to withdraw the second engine from Hamilton fire station, after the appliance was first withdrawn on a temporary basis in 2023.
