Fire stations across England are facing serious disrepair and staffing shortages after a staggering £1 billion cut in capital funding over the past decade, fire chiefs have warned. This alarming situation comes as emergency callouts have soared by 20%, but the number of frontline firefighters has fallen by a quarter, a reduction of approximately 11,000 personnel.
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has urged the government to urgently address the crisis in its upcoming spending review. Without immediate investment, the fire service risks becoming the “forgotten emergency service,” unable to meet the rising demands and safeguard public safety.
“Our fire stations are literally falling apart,” said a spokesperson for the NFCC. Firefighters are working out of ageing, often dilapidated buildings that do not meet modern safety standards, while struggling with outdated equipment and shrinking teams.
Between 2013 and 2023, the capital funding available to fire and rescue services dropped by around 40%, according to the NFCC’s analysis. During the same period, the average number of fire and rescue callouts increased by one-fifth, adding further strain.
The impact on firefighter numbers has been severe. The service has lost 25% of its workforce, with approximately 11,000 fewer firefighters now on duty across England. This shortage, coupled with deteriorating infrastructure, is placing immense pressure on those still serving.
Concerns about safety were heightened following the tragic deaths of three firefighters at a major incident, with the inquest revealing that under-resourcing may have played a part. Jennie Logan, one of the fallen firefighters, was remembered as a dedicated professional who died in the line of duty, alongside colleagues who remain critically injured.
Government figures show fire crews responded to 330,000 incidents in 2024 alone. Although the number of fires has slightly decreased, the complexity and severity of emergencies have increased, including more rescues, road traffic collisions, and severe weather events.
NFCC Chair Sir Thomas Garrigan stressed the urgent need for government action: “Firefighters do a tough and dangerous job. They need the support, funding, and facilities to do it safely and effectively. Without investment, public and firefighter safety will be put at risk.”
While the government insists it has provided £900 million in funding for fire and rescue services over recent years, the NFCC warns this is insufficient to make up for years of cuts and increasing demand. The council calls for a comprehensive funding package to modernise fire stations, boost recruitment, and replace ageing equipment.
The NFCC also highlights the growing challenges posed by climate change, which is contributing to more frequent and severe fires across the UK. Fire services must be properly resourced to meet this evolving threat.
Without urgent investment, fire chiefs warn, the ability of fire services to protect communities will be severely compromised.
