THE future of fire cover across Dorset and Wiltshire is under intense scrutiny, as senior leaders warn that difficult decisions may lie ahead amid mounting financial pressures.

Chief fire officer Andy Cole has revealed he has attended 13 public consultation events in recent weeks, as part of ongoing discussions around proposals to close eight fire stations across the region.

The meetings, held at six of the affected locations so far, have drawn strong public interest, giving residents, firefighters and community leaders the chance to question plans and voice concerns.

Chief fire officer Andy Cole.

“These last couple of weeks have been really busy,” he said, explaining that the sessions have helped outline the financial challenges facing the service, as well as the data behind the proposals.

The consultation has also sparked political attention, with several MPs raising the issue in Parliament.

Among them, John Glen for Salisbury has secured talks with the Fire Minister, while Dr Andrew Murrison for South West Wiltshire raised the issue at Prime Minister’s Questions and called for a meeting involving all Dorset and Wiltshire MPs.

Elsewhere, Edward Morello and Neil Duncan-Jordan have both tabled Early Day Motions, while Brian Mathew led a parliamentary debate on the issue.

Cole said he has repeatedly written to all 16 local MPs in a bid to secure fairer funding for the service, warning that current measures do not go far enough.

While a recent funding settlement allows a council tax increase to £1.86 per week for an average Band D household, he said this still fails to bridge the gap.

“Whether this activity ultimately results in improved funding for our service, remains to be seen. However, I am really grateful to these MPs for their support and the increased attention being given to this important issue.”

The proposed closures have become a growing hot topic across communities, with campaigners urging residents to take part in the consultation process.

Fire chiefs say public feedback will play a key role in shaping the final decision, with further meetings and an online survey still open.