New Cross Fire station. My Question to Council

Question asked by:  Mr R Woolford

Member to reply:       Councillor Daby

Question

Does the Council agree that with major new developments planned for New Cross and Deptford such as Convoy Wharf, and Surrey Canal Road, as well as increasing numbers of local residents being forced into poverty, that the demands of New Cross station are likely to increase not decrease, and that the Government has not taken into account the future demands likely to be made on New Cross Fire station.

Can the Council state what support and action it will be taking in order to support New Cross Fire Station, its crew and the needs of the New Cross Community opposed to its closure?

Reply

Like many Lewisham residents I was surprised by reports that New Cross Fire Station is under threat of closure. I will be working closely with my Labour colleagues at the GLA, London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority and local Councillors to oppose the closure of any Fire Stations in Lewisham.

However, Like virtually every other public service, the Fire Brigade is facing the need to make savings.  There is a target for these savings but the full details will not be known until at least December when the Government announces its grant to the Brigade. I will be fully engaged with the Borough Fire Commander in respect of these matters.