Scottish Borders MP John Lamont and Borders MSP Rachael Hamilton have condemned the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service after it approved the downgrading of services at Hawick Fire Station.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Board met today to approve the outcome of its Service Delivery Review and make final decisions on proposed changes to fire service provision across Scotland, including plans affecting Hawick Fire Station.
The decision means that Hawick Fire Station will be downgraded from a full-time, 24-hour service to a daytime-only operation.
Borders MP John Lamont said:
“The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has made the wrong decision and put public safety at risk.
“I have stood side by side with local residents, and local fire crews who have opposed this downgrade from the beginning.
“People will rightly feel that they have been completely ignored, and I will keep fighting to ensure that the Borders has the proper fire and rescue cover it needs to keep people safe.”
Borders MSP Rachael Hamilton said:
“The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has failed to listen to the views of local people. This decision has been made solely because of budget pressures, rather than public safety. It has also failed to take proper account of future developments in the area, including the planned Center Parcs resort.
“The case for retaining a full-time service at Hawick Fire Station is overwhelming. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has made the wrong decision, and it will put public safety at risk.
“I will keep campaigning alongside local residents to ensure that we have the proper fire and rescue cover we need.”
