East Cowes is to lose its fire station, an Isle of Wight Councillor has told the Isle of Wight County Press.

Cllr Karl Love says he is 'furious' to hear just a few hours' notice has been given of plans to shut the station on York Avenue.

He says he has been told fears for the safety of the building have prompted a decision to remove the station's fire appliances and equipment tomorrow (Thursday), "because the building is unsafe and the safety of firefighters is paramount."  

Cllr Love says there is talk of finding an alternative location, but concerns have been raised the fire station may be lost for good.

East Cowes fire station sits close to Red Funnel's car ferry terminal, ship-building yards and an energy depot, as well as English Heritage's historic Osborne estate.

It is a base for retained firefighters and in recent years has opened its doors as a hub for Covid-19 vaccinations. 

In an angry statement tonight (Wednesday), Cllr Love says crews have been given just a few hours' notice of the plan.

The Isle of Wight County Press has asked Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service for a statement.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority (HIWFRA) increased its part of the council tax by 2.99 per cent for 2024-25, but argues it remains one of the lowest fire and rescue service rates in England.

In February, HIWFRA's chief financial officer Catherine Edgecombe said the service was in a strong position but there would be significant challenges coming, including a potential £4 million budget gap in 2025/26.

She said the authority would plan and deliver "cashable efficiencies" across its operational and support service, to be made from April 2025.

Ms Edgecombe said these efficiencies would be made using the outcome of safety reviews to make sure the "resources are appropriately matched to risk."