South Wales Fire Service is currently considering implementing a significant increase in the amount that people in the region will pay for fire services in the upcoming year. The fire authority is engaging in consultations regarding their budget proposals for 2025/2026, which would involve a 5.75% rise in the contributions from the 10 council areas under its coverage. This increase would result in local councils contributing £101.34 million to the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s budget, a rise of £5.5 million from the previous year’s £95.84 million. Cardiff would face a 7.66% increase, Newport a 5.82% rise, and other areas such as Vale of Glamorgan and Rhondda Cynon Taf would experience varying percentage increases.
Without the additional national insurance contributions from employers, the fire authority, currently under commissionership, would only be seeking a 4.08% increase. This adjustment would have led to different percentage increases for each council area, such as 5.96% for Cardiff, 4.15% for Newport, and 3.75% for Vale of Glamorgan. The proposed funding for the 2025/26 financial year takes into account updated population data, incorporating estimated mid-year population figures for 2023. The additional funds required are allocated towards covering pay inflation and necessary expenses such as premises, communications, training, ICT, insurance, and capital financing.
Lisa Mullan, the fire service’s treasurer, presented details to the Merthyr Tydfil council, outlining the budget considerations for the upcoming year. The consultation process involves councils receiving formal letters from the treasurer, with responses expected to be shared in a final budget setting report post the consultation period, which runs from December 31 to January 30. In the previous financial year, a significant portion of the fire service budget was allocated to employee costs, pensions, training, supplies, transport, and capital financing, with additional income and costs recorded.
The potential increase in fire service contributions reflects the evolving needs and responsibilities of the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service to ensure the safety and security of the region’s residents. Local councils are essential stakeholders in this decision-making process, as their contributions directly impact the available resources and capabilities of the fire service. The consultation period provides an opportunity for transparency and accountability in financial planning, allowing for feedback and insights from key stakeholders to be incorporated into the final budget decisions.
As the South Wales Fire Service navigates the complexities of budget planning and allocation, maintaining a balance between financial sustainability and operational effectiveness remains a priority. The proposed budget adjustments aim to address the growing demands on the fire service, aligning resources with the evolving needs of the communities it serves. The outcome of the consultation process will shape the financial landscape for the upcoming year, influencing how fire services are delivered and supported in South Wales.