Release date: 15 September 2025
With less than a week to go until the consultation closes, people are being urged to share their views on West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) proposals.
The CRMP is the fire service’s business plan setting out how it will keep the communities of West Sussex safe over the next four years, building on the priorities laid down in the service’s CRMP 2022 – 2026.
Interim Chief Fire Officer Gary Ball said: “The consultation closes on 22 September, so don’t miss your chance to have your say on our proposals.
“This plan will set out the direction of the fire service for the next four years. It affects everyone living and working in West Sussex, so we need your input to ensure we get it right.
“Thank you to everyone who has already shared their views. If you haven’t yet taken part, please visit our consultation page to find out more and have your say.”
Last year the service launched a community questionnaire to ask people about the risks in West Sussex that concerned them the most. This feedback, together with a strategic assessment of the risks that exist within the county, has informed the plans proposed in this public consultation.
The service is now asking people for their views on the plans it proposes to put in place from April 2026 to make West Sussex a safer place to live, work and visit. The CRMP has five key areas of focus which are:
- Preventing fires and emergencies from happening
- Protecting people, firefighters and property by making buildings as safe from fire as they can be
- Responding to fires and emergencies quickly and effectively
- Having a safe and valued workforce
- Making best use of resources
Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire & Rescue Duncan Crow said: “Time is running out to have your say on our CRMP proposals. We are really keen to hear from as many people as possible to ensure we are supporting the needs of all residents living and working in our communities. Your views will help shape West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s plans to keep you and your loved ones safe for the rest of the decade.”
People can have their say by completing the online survey or by filling out a paper copy of the consultation before 22 September. Paper copies can be requested by emailing yourfireservice@westsussex.gov.uk or calling 01243 786211.
