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Last Updated: Wednesday, 12 May, 2004, 16:23 GMT 17:23 UK
Brigade concedes loss of control
A fire service control room
Each brigade currently has its own control centre
Control of Dorset's fire brigade looks set to leave the county after the service withdrew its bid to host a new regional control room.

They were told it did not meet minimum standards required by the government.

When operational, the new centre will deal with 999 calls from Dorset, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Avon, Somerset, Devon and Cornwall.

The Fire Brigades Union have opposed the move, saying it means operators will not have local knowledge.

But the government says added resources and technology in fewer control rooms will improve the service's response times.

They say local knowledge plays a very minor role in control rooms.

Dorset's pull-out means the centre will be located in one of the other six counties.



LINKS TO MORE HAMPSHIRE/DORSET STORIES


 

SEE ALSO:
Future of tri-centre in question
12 May 04  |  Gloucestershire
Fire control rooms to be merged
16 Feb 04  |  England
Fire brigades warned of budget cap
29 Jan 04  |  England
Fears over fire control room merger
15 Jan 04  |  Berkshire


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