Members of the public are being urged to share their views on proposed operational changes at Perth Community Fire Station as part of a nationwide consultation by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).
One of the key proposals under review is the replacement of the station’s third appliance—a Combined Aerial Rescue Pump (CARP)—with a dedicated High Reach Appliance (HRA). The CARP was temporarily withdrawn in September 2023 and replaced by an HRA, which has been crewed on a temporary basis since then.
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Andrew Girrity, Head of Service Delivery for the East and North of Scotland, explained the rationale behind the changes.
“The operational demand in Perth, which currently has three wholetime appliances, is actually lower than many other stations with only two,” he said. “Our modelling indicates that two appliances would more accurately reflect the local risk and demand. Replacing the current CARP with a permanently crewed high reach vehicle is a key step toward that realignment.”
DACO Girrity also highlighted the broader significance of the review, describing it as a pivotal moment for the future of the service.
“This is the first comprehensive review of how we deliver emergency services in Scotland since the formation of the national service in 2013,” he said. “We want to hear from as many people as possible to ensure our plans meet the needs of the communities we serve.”
A public drop-in session will take place on Wednesday, 23 July, from 3pm to 7pm at the AK Bell Library in Perth. No advance registration is required, and all are welcome to attend and share their feedback.
The consultation forms part of a wider service delivery review aimed at enhancing efficiency and ensuring resources are appropriately allocated across Scotland.
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