Date: 23rd January, 2026
Chief Fire Officer Andy Cole said: “As with many public sector organisations, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) continue to face significant financial challenges, despite our attempts to lobby Government for better funding. This financial pressure reflects a long-term reduction in central government funding for fire and rescue services, combined with rising costs that sit largely outside our control, such as the addition of National Insurance and pay award costs, as well as a below national average council tax contribution, we must find ways to address the forecast deficits and ensure we are sustainable in the future.
“Dorset & Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Authority will be considering a recommendation at its February meeting to start public consultation on the potential closure of eight on-call fire stations.
“A fire cover review has been underway for the past three years, looking at information and data about all 50 of the fire stations within DWFRS, including appliances and crewing. We are always working to make sure we use our resources efficiently, so we continue to provide an emergency service to our communities when and where they need us, whilst making the best use of public money.
“The eight stations being considered by the Authority for potential closure are Charmouth, Cranborne, Hamworthy and Maiden Newton (Dorset), Bradford on Avon, Mere, Ramsbury and Wilton (Wiltshire).
“Whilst no decision is being made on any proposal for closure until the Fire Authority meeting on 30 June, my focus now is on supporting staff through the uncertain months ahead. I want to recognise the professionalism, pride and commitment shown by firefighters across the Service. I know how deeply connected people are to their station, and their community, and I do not underestimate how personal this will feel. I am extremely grateful for the continued dedication they show in serving their communities during what I know will be an incredibly challenging time.”
Full details of the proposals will be included in the papers for the meeting on 10 February, which are available to view here. If agreed, the public consultation will run for 13 weeks, with a final decision taken by the Authority on 30 June.