I was recently made aware of the possibility that one of the existing fire appliances at Corby Fire Station might be removed and replaced with a Cobra Intervention Vehicle – indeed, on the 14th November, I visited Corby Fire Station to talk to FBU representatives and firefighters about their concerns relating to this proposal and signed the locally organised petition against the changes.
To my mind, and informed by what I heard, I believe that, given that Corby is a rapidly expanding town, we need more fire cover, not less. Furthermore, it is also important to remember that Corby Fire Station covers much of rural East Northamptonshire too.
So, I am campaigning to protect the second fire appliance at Corby Fire Station and believe the introduction of the new Cobra Intervention Vehicle, should not be at the expense of existing provision - it should be in addition, to provide a further option for our local firefighters, when responding to calls.
Whilst I welcome the fact that Northamptonshire is leading the way, through the use of Cobra, we really must ensure that our brave, dedicated, firefighters have all the tools they need, to keep local people safe.
To this end, Peter Bone MP and I, have today launched the More Fire Cover Campaign, to lobby for increased fire cover across North Northamptonshire. We are encouraging all interested parties to show support for this campaign. As you might be aware, in the past, the Listening Campaign successfully fought Labour’s plans to close Rushden Fire Station.
So, to launch this campaign, I have today written to Councillor André González De Savage, the Cabinet Member for Strategic Infrastructure, Economic Growth & Public Protection at Northamptonshire County Council - a copy of my letter can be found below.
As I say, our brave firefighters need all the tools in the box to keep local people safe - with Corby growing, we need more cover, not less.
You can support my campaign today by dropping me a note, or sending me an email to office@votepursglove.co.uk.