'More sustainable service’: Council to consider future of Oxfordshire fire service
The future of Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is set to be discussed by councillors as they consider how to improve the service and make it more sustainable.
Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet will consider recommendations for the future of the county’s fire and rescue service at a meeting on November 17.
The recommendations follow engagement work and a 13-week public consultation held between October 2025 and January 2026.
They aim to ensure fire and rescue resources are positioned to best meet the county’s current and future needs.
Rob MacDougall, Oxfordshire County Council’s chief fire officer, said: “Our aim is to provide a more sustainable service for the future, improve emergency response times, strengthen community safety and ensure resources are located where they can have greatest impact and benefit.
“We listened carefully to communities and colleagues during the consultation. I’m extremely grateful for everyone’s contribution, helping us to refine and develop these recommendations.”
The proposals include redistributing full-time firefighters to stations in Bicester, Chipping Norton, Faringdon, Witney and Henley during the day.
This would see full-time firefighters based at the stations during daytime hours, providing a more reliable emergency response when the service is typically at its busiest.
The service also hopes the changes would increase its capacity to carry out prevention, protection and wider community safety work, including safe and well visits.
If approved, the recommendations would also see two fire engines retained at Rewley Road fire station in Oxford.
Cllr Neil Fawcett, deputy leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “These proposals are about making sure Oxfordshire has a fire and rescue service that is ready for the future and able to meet the needs of our communities.
“This includes adapting to risks associated with climate change such as wildfires. I’m confident what is being recommended will mean that crews are even better positioned to deal with a range of environmental challenges.
“The proposals have been shaped by what we've heard from residents, partners and our firefighters.
“I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to take part in the recent consultation; your feedback has helped us develop and improve these plans.”