Fire service says moving appliance from city centre will improve cover

Concerns were raised two years ago when Central Fire Station on Worship Street, Hull, faced the axe.

At the time politicians decided that before either of its two fire appliances could move, a new multi-purpose building should be found in the city centre to ensure 24-hour cover.

However, a report by chief fire officer Frank Duffield to Friday's meeting of Humberside Fire Authority says there has been "little tangible progress" in finding new joint premises.

The service is asking councillors for their approval to move one of the engines to Calvert Lane Fire Station and the rescue support unit, which contains heavy cutting gear, saws and other equipment, to North Hull Fire Station.

The report claims moving the fire engine will result in one life being saved every six years, as it would improve cover in heavily populated areas in west Hull and on Orchard Park estate, as well as Barton-upon-Humber and the East Riding. Moving the rescue unit would allow quicker access to main roads out of Hull.

A spokesman for the fire service said the move would "increase public safety."

"There will still be support and cover coming into the city centre if need be."