The expansion of Luton Airport, the arrival of East West Rail and plans for a Universal theme park resort are among the major developments Bedfordshire’s fire service says it must prepare for over the next five years.
Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Chief Fire Officer Andy Hopkinson has warned of the challenges facing Luton as a 12-week public consultation launches on its priorities for 2027 to 2032.
The draft Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) was approved by members of Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Authority and sets out how the service intends to prevent, protect against and respond to risks facing local communities.
Mr Hopkinson said the county was facing significant change, with major infrastructure projects, climate change, an ageing population and increasing demand for emergency services all expected to affect the work of firefighters.
He said: “Our county will experience huge change over the coming years and with this will come significant risks that we must be prepared for.
“Major national infrastructure projects including the expansion of London Luton Airport, delivery of East West Rail, creation of the Universal theme park resort and proposals for new settlements are just some of the changes on the horizon.
“On top of this, climate change, an ageing population and growing demand for emergency services mean we must continue to adapt.
“Your feedback on our proposed CRMP is vital for shaping the future of Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and how it operates to keep our communities safe.”
The consultation follows what the service described as an unprecedented summer of incidents, with the draft plan intended to guide its work as Bedfordshire changes over the coming years.
For the latest plan, the service carried out what it described as the most detailed assessment of community risk in its history.
Four priorities have been identified to guide its work between 2027 and 2032. These cover prevention, preparedness and community resilience; understanding risk and aligning resources; developing a high-performing and inclusive culture; and creating a flexible service ready for future challenges.
Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said the priorities had been shaped by risk analysis, data, feedback and its assessment of the challenges facing communities.
The aim is to reduce risks across the county, maintain the standard of service provided to the public and support the firefighters and other staff responsible for delivering it.
Residents, workers and students in Bedfordshire are being invited to take part in the 12-week consultation, which launched on Friday, October 23.
The anonymous survey also offers participants the chance to win a £50 gift voucher.
The consultation can be accessed at bedsfire.gov.uk/public-consultation.
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