South Yorkshire: 999 services to share stations

Police officers and firefighters may share more stations as South Yorkshire’s emergency services try to save cash.
South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Alan Billings at home in SheffieldSouth Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Alan Billings at home in Sheffield
South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Alan Billings at home in Sheffield

The announcement comes after Maltby Fire Station is set to close, with firefighters moving into the nearby police station.

Dr Alan Billings, South Yorkshire police and crime commissioner, said he ‘welcomed’ the move and was a supporter of ‘co-location projects’.

He said: “I welcome the announcement South Yorkshire has been successful in securing funding to ensure this project will take place.”

“This is exactly the type of initiative that will help drive down the cost of buildings.”

“It will also facilitate communication and joint working between agencies to ensure a co-ordinated approach to public service delivery, resulting in an improved service to the public.”

“I’m keen to see more innovation in terms of co-location projects with partner agencies which bring financial efficiencies at the same time as service improvements.”

He has suggested community buildings such as libraries could be used to accommodate police officers.

Penny Mordaunt, fire minister, who awarded funding to modify Maltby police station to accommodate firefighters and vehicles, said: “One of the things I found encouraging was the high number of bids looking to promote greater collaboration with other emergency services through sharing stations and services, sharing of back office functions, and joining up on service delivery.”

“This is exactly the sort of innovation that is needed across the public sector and I look forward to seeing how these projects progress.”

Work to upgrade the police station is to begin early next year.”

On the closure of Maltby Fire Station, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Finance and Resources Director, Beverley Sandy, said: “This move makes perfect sense for us, the police and the taxpayer.”

“Instead of having two public buildings, and all the running costs associated with them, we will be able to combine our resources into one facility to provide a more efficient frontline service.”