This initiative marks the first major investment in York’s public spaces in several years.
North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is inviting residents and stakeholders to share their views on its proposed priorities (areas of focus) and changes as part of the Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) for 2025–2029.
Every fire and rescue service in the UK is required to produce a CRMP, which outlines how it will assess and respond to risks in its area using its people, vehicles and equipment. Before finalising the plan, the Service is seeking public input on its proposed areas of focus and two specific changes.
Over the next four years, the Service aims to:
- Strengthen partnership working to help those most at risk and vulnerable
- Enhance training for its teams
- Review fire stations and specialist vehicles (appliances) to ensure they continue to meet community needs effectively and efficiently.
- Work to extend the lifespan of its buildings with a focus on Northallerton, Malton and Scarborough stations.
In addition, the Service is consulting on two key proposals:
- Automatic Fire Alarm Attendance
The Service is also proposing to extend its current policy of not attending automatic fire alarms at commercial buildings where no one sleeps from 12 hours to 24 hours a day. The majority of these are false alarms and divert crews from more critical work such as prevention, training and community safety activities.
- Water Bowser Replacement
After detailed analysis, the Service is proposing to replace only one of our two water bowsers when they’re due for renewal in 2026/2027. This would save an estimated £500,000, which could be reinvested back into the Service. Water bowsers have limitations and the Service is looking at more modern and effective ways of dealing with wildfires. The second bowser would remain in use until the end of its operational life.
Chief Fire Officer Jonathan Dyson said: “We’re committed to making sure our plans reflect the needs and priorities of the communities we serve. This consultation is a great chance for you to help shape how we manage risk and deliver services over the next four years. I warmly encourage everyone to take a few minutes to share their views through the survey".
Jo Coles, York and North Yorkshire Deputy Mayor for Policing Fire and Crime said: “The Mayor David Skaith and I are committed to ensuring our fire and rescue service meets the needs of our communities now and into the future. We're working with North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue service on their delivery plans for the next 4 years.
“As with any consultation it's really important we hear from as many people as possible across our region with their views on the proposed changes, before any decisions are made. Please take a few moments to share your views to help shape the future of our fire service in York and North Yorkshire.”
The consultation is open until 11:59pm on Sunday, 7th September 2025. All responses are anonymous.
To read the full consultation document and complete the consultation survey, visit the fire service website:
Community Risk Management Plan 2025-2029 - North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service
After the consultation closes, responses will be reviewed and a report with recommendations will be prepared for the Mayor/Deputy Mayor. The final CRMP will be published on the Service’s website following their decision.
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