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Press Release

LGA responds to Government statement on the Fire Services College

5 September 2011

Responding to the Government's statement on the Fire Service College, David Cartwright, member of the LGA's Fire Commission and Chairman of its Fire Service College Working Group, said:

"We saw in the recent civil disturbances, the commitment, dedication and professionalism of our firefighters. They deserve the very best training facilities to ensure that they are able to tackle any possible threats and keep the public safe.

"The Fire Service College has suffered from under-investment for a very long time but can still play a key role at the heart of the UK's fire service. However, the way it's operating at the moment is not fit for the 21st century and is not financially sustainable, so action needs to be taken as soon as possible. The business acumen and extra investment a private partner would provide, coupled with strong leadership from experts in the fire sector, is exactly what it needs.

"The LGA, liaising with leading organisations across the fire sector, carried out a four-month review into modernising the Fire Service College earlier this year. It talked to many professionals and partners, visited the college to see the facilities, and concluded the only viable option to secure its long-term future is a public-private partnership. It's good to see Government ministers favouring this view.

"Although the Fire Minister's statement is a step in the right direction, we already have a clear view from the sector about what needs to happen next. Rather than consulting further, more momentum is now needed to resolve this problem and get the tendering process underway."



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