Isle of Wight firefighters in East Cowes have been forced to leave their station building and move to another town, after 'significant structural issues' were found at the site.

As previously reported by the County Press, East Cowes Fire Station is being closed over health and safety fears, caused by subsidence.

A search for a temporary site has been underway but, to date, no suitable location has been found, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said.

It means the station's crews and fire engine will be moving to Newport Fire Station.

Read more: East Cowes fire station 'to close tomorrow' claims 'furious' councillor

"The East Cowes crews will carry out their drill nights and train there", Glenn Bowyer, director of operations at HIWFRS, said.

"We are also working with crews at East Cowes to enable them to mobilise from Newport when there is an incident."

Glenn Bowyer said the station in East Cowes has suffered with subsidence and although underpinning has resolved the movement, the residual damage has left the building in an "unmaintainable state". 

Isle of Wight County Press: East Cowes Fire StationEast Cowes Fire Station (Image: IWCP)

He added: “Most recent assessments of the building have led us to make the decision that our crews cannot continue to operate from the station due to health and safety concerns."

“At this stage our focus is on implementing an immediate temporary solution, no long-term decisions have been made.

“As we go through this process, we will keep our crews and communities, who will continue to be protected by Newport and neighbouring stations, informed of any updates.”

Cllr Karen Lucioni, who sits on the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Authority, said: "The community of East Cowes will continue to be well protected by Newport and neighbouring stations.

"The actions being taken are based on immediate building safety concerns and no long-term decisions about the station are being considered at this stage.”

In an angry statement last night (Wednesday), Cllr Karl Love said crews were given just a few hours' notice of the plan.

He said: "The fire service will of course tell you that they can operate safely from Newport and Ryde but if our main road is closed or congested every minute will count especially if we have a major incident."

Cllr Lucioni said she will be seeking assurances over a new building for the town.