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More fire stations and jobs could be lost in the West Midlands

More fire stations across the West Midlands could be closed and more firefighters could lose their jobs because of further cuts over the next three years, according to the Chair of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority.

Chair of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority warns fire stations could close Credit: David Jones/PA Archive/Press Association Images

Councillor John Edwards said fire services in the region were facing “increasingly difficult times” thanks to a 36% cut in central Government funding since 2011.

He added that further cuts of at least £14m are expected over the next three years.

We are at tipping point. I am calling on the Government to listen to our very real concerns that fire stations and fire engines might have to go, and that firefighters will lose their jobs.

“It calls into question our continuing ability to provide the effective and efficient fire service, and five-minute response time, that people in the West Midlands expect and deserve."

– Councillor John Edwards, Chair of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority

Councillor Edwards, who worked as a firefighter for twelve years, was re-elected Chair of the West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority for the fifth year in a row at the organisation's annual meeting on Monday.