The Lib Dem-Labour controlled Bucks and Milton Keynes Fire Authority have partially backtracked on a proposal to cut fire services in Milton Keynes.
This U-turn comes after a Conservative motion at Milton Keynes City Council’s October Full Council meeting, where Conservative Councillors urged the Council to formally oppose any proposed cuts to the fire services.
It has now become apparent that the Fire Authority leaders have hastily changed their proposals, withdrawing the proposal to lose an engine at Broughton but still intend to cut an engine at West Ashland.
The updated plans also include moving a rural firefighting vehicle from West Ashland to Broughton.
Cllr Shazna Muzammil, Leader of the MKCC Conservative Group, said:
“I am delighted that finally the Lib Dems and Labour have seen sense, listened to residents’ concerns and reduced their irresponsible cuts. Whilst I am glad they have now decided to keep the same level of capacity at Broughton, they are still intending to reduce the services at West Ashland. We believe this is a mistake and will continue to oppose this short-sighted decision.
Cllr Peter Geary, who moved the original Council motion against these cuts, added
“Whilst the Lib Dem-Labour Fire Authority leadership have stepped back from their decision to cut a fire engine at Broughton, this does not mean they will not put that option back in at a later date. With the support of local residents, we have already achieved a lot but we need to keep the pressure on. We urge residents to sign our petition to save fire engines across Milton Keynes and Buckinghamshire. The petition is available here: Petition: Save Fire Services In MK | Milton Keynes Conservatives
