Green light for closure of Bow and Silvertown fire stations
Mayor of London Boris Johnson - Credit: Archant
Controversial plans to shut two east London fire stations have been given the go ahead.
The London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority last week voted through proposals to close 10 fire stations and axe 550 jobs across the capital as it seeks savings of £45million over the next two years.
Among the 10 facing closure in plans backed by London Mayor Boris Johnson are Bow in Tower Hamlets and Silvertown in Newham. Whitechapel fire station will also lose one of its two engines.
The measures will come into effect in January 2014 as part of the ‘Fifth London Safety Plan’.
London Assembly Member John Biggs, who represents the City and east London, said the Labour Party had wanted to fight the decision in court – but was told a legal challenge would fail.
“We are all deeply disappointed that Boris’ cuts have now been forced through and that both Bow and Silvertown fire stations will now close,” he said.
“It is a disgrace that Boris has not used his power and resources to fully fund the London Fire Brigade and keep the other ten open as well. He is putting Londoners at risk and making our great city less safe.”
Most Read
- 1 Cyclist in 'critical but stable' condition after Whitechapel lorry crash
- 2 Cyclist in hospital after lorry collision in Whitechapel
- 3 Thunderstorms to hit London this evening warns Met Office
- 4 12 stolen phones recovered after stop and search in Hackney
- 5 Cycle paths joined up in Aldgate creates 'safe route' through east London
- 6 Flats under construction in Hackney Wick to be knocked down and rebuilt
- 7 Section 60 in place across Tower Hamlets after Stepney stabbing
- 8 Whitechapel nun pens book of 12 stories to inspire selflessness in society
- 9 'A horrific attack': Man suffers critical head injuries from Shoreditch fight
- 10 Mile End: Car crashes into bus stop during police pursuit
But Mr Johnson insisted ensuring Londoners are safe is one of his “top priorities”, adding that his rivals’ failure to face fiscal responsibilities left the fire authority in an “increasingly precarious position”.
Tower Hamlets is one of four London councils considering a legal challenge against the cuts.
