DORSET and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is warning that mounting financial pressures could lead to the closure of eight on-call fire stations.

Leaders have announced they are preparing to launch a public consultation on the future of fire cover across the two counties.

The eight on-call stations identified for potential closure are Charmouth, Cranborne, Hamworthy and Maiden Newton in Dorset, and Wilton, Mere, Ramsbury and Bradford on Avon in Wiltshire.

The proposals come after what the service describes as years of falling government funding, rising costs and limited ability to raise local income.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Authority will be asked at its February meeting to approve a 13-week public consultation, with a final decision expected in June.

Chief fire officer Andy Cole said the service is facing “significant financial challenges” shared across much of the public sector, but particularly acute for fire and rescue services.

He said the pressures stem from “a long-term reduction in central government funding for fire and rescue services, combined with rising costs that sit largely outside our control”, including National Insurance changes, pay awards and what he described as a below-average council tax contribution.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service chief fire officer Andy Cole.

The proposals follow a three-year fire cover review examining data from all 50 fire stations operated by the service, including appliance availability and crewing models.

According to the service, the review is intended to ensure resources are deployed efficiently while maintaining the ability to respond to emergencies when and where they are needed.

On-call stations are crewed by firefighters who live or work locally and respond when alerted, rather than being permanently staffed.

No decision on closures will be taken until the Fire Authority meeting on June 30.

However, the prospect has already raised concern in the affected communities, where fire stations often play a visible role in resilience and identity.

Mr Cole acknowledged the human impact of the proposals, saying: “I want to recognise the professionalism, pride and commitment shown by firefighters across the Service.

“I know how deeply connected people are to their station, and their community, and I do not underestimate how personal this will feel.”

He added that his immediate focus is on supporting staff through what he described as “the uncertain months ahead”, while thanking firefighters for their continued dedication during a difficult period.

Detailed proposals will be published ahead of the fire authority meeting on February 10.

If consultation is approved, public feedback will help inform the authority’s final decision in June, marking one of the most significant moments for the service in recent years.