FIRE chiefs have warned further funding cuts will ‘undoubtedly’ lead to fewer frontline services.
In its annual report to Worcestershire County Council, the Hereford and Worcester Fire Authority admitted there had been ‘serious financial challenges’ to the local fire service over the past year.
The report added the fire authority’s financial strains would most likely continue over the next few years.
It added, whilst there has not been a reduction in services to the public this year, further cuts in funding against high inflation and annual costs would undoubtedly lead to frontline resources being axed.
The Chief Fire Officer has, according to the report, had to address a significant budget gap this year, leading to around 2.6 per cent in-year revenue budget reduction.
It added this had resulted in some restructuring and job losses, but despite the negative impact on the support functions, there had been no discernible changes in the services provided to the public yet.
A similar gap is expected next year and in future years which has led fire chiefs to fear changes to the delivery of frontline response, protection and prevention services to meet these budgetary challenges.
Coun Roger Phillips, the fire authority’s chair, said, despite financial challenges, the service was currently in a healthy and productive state.
