Belsize Fire Station among 12 which will be closing

Plans have been announced to close 12 fire stations in the capital including one which could have a knock-on effect in Brent.

Belsize Station, in Lancaster Grove, is one of 12 listed for definite closure under plans to save £65m.

There have been mounting concerns over the future of the borough’s three fire stations since the cost saving measures were announced last year.

Only Wembley Fire Station, in Harrow Road, was said to be ‘definitely not closing’, leaving an uncertain cloud hanging over Willesden and Harlesden Stations.

However, although they will not be impacted, members of London’s Fire Authority, a panel which oversees the fire brigade’s actions, previously told the Times that closing Belsize station would still pose a threat to residents in Kilburn given that it is often used as a backup station for fires in the area.

As well as the 12 fire stations, 18 fire appliances and 400 fire-fighters will also be cut.

Speaking after today’s announcement, Navin Shah, London Assembly member for Brent and Harrow and vice chair of the Fire Authority said: “This will reduce fire cover in London, these cuts will put the safety and security of Londoners at risk.

“How can cutting 12 of our fire stations, 18 fire engines and 400 fire-fighters be in the best interest of Londoners?”

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Like virtually every other public service, the Brigade is facing the need to make savings.

“We expect to be able to maintain our current target response times.”