Councillor John Shuttleworth, Chair of County Durham and Darlington’s Fire and Rescue Authority has today, written a letter to the Minister of State for Building Safety and Fire, Lord Greenhalgh, questioning the way fire and rescue services are funded.
The letter outlines the current challenging funding position of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, along with asking the government minister to reflect upon the national funding formula, as Councillor Shuttleworth claims the current system is, “ unsustainable.”
Councillor Shuttleworth commented “We all recognise the outstanding contribution of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service. I am committed to seeking fair funding for the service in support of the vital work it undertakes. County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service has been under significant financial pressure for over a decade and my letter is focused on a better deal for the communities we serve and the Fire and Rescue Service. Without a change in direction from central government, there is the potential for further cuts to the service which could be avoided, if the right decisions are made.”
