Release date: 11 March 2026
West Sussex County Council has committed to invest £4.8m in West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service to purchase a further 12 new fire engines as it nears the end of its current Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP).
The new fire engines feature improved vehicle and fire-fighting technology including a clean-cab concept to reduce firefighters’ exposure to contaminants. Each vehicle also delivers lower emissions which supports the council’s goal to be net carbon neutral by 2030.
In addition to the new fire engines, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has also invested in Platinum House – a state-of-the-art training centre and fire station in Horsham – along with other projects totalling £19.3m over the course of the current CRMP.
The CRMP has delivered several key achievements over the last four years including increasing crewing from five days a week to seven days a week at day-crewed fire stations and introducing new emergency response standards.
A call challenge policy introduced in December 2022 has resulted in a significant reduction in false alarms at non-domestic business premises. This has freed up firefighters’ time to attend incidents, complete essential training, and carry out prevention and engagement work in the community.
Since April 2022 the service has delivered more than 22,000 Safe and Well Visits, offering advice and support to some of the most vulnerable residents in the county to help them live safely and independently.
More than 4,000 risk-based inspection audits have been carried out at businesses over the course of the current CRMP, helping to keep staff and customers safe.
Councillor Duncan Crow, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said: “This significant investment highlights our commitment to protecting our communities and keeping people safe.
“The achievements delivered through the current CRMP demonstrates the critical role West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service plays in protecting residents.
“The new fire engines will enable the service to continue delivering an effective emergency response while also contributing to our environmental targets.”
Chief Fire Officer Gary Ball said: “Reaching the end of our current CRMP gives us a valuable opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made as a service.
“This investment in new fire engines demonstrates our continued commitment to providing our crews with modern and safe appliances. Combined with the opening of Platinum House, improved crewing models and emergency response standards, and strengthening the leadership and culture of the service, we are in a strong position to continue serving West Sussex.”
