A consultation is currently underway regarding PCC David Lloyd potentially taking on responsibility for the service’s budgets and priorities, which is currently controlled by the county council.
However, Welwyn Hatfield Council is set to officially object to the proposals after members claimed there appeared to be no financial saving or provision for scrutiny.
In a letter outlining the local authority’s concerns, councillors said: “Members are concerned about the very short time frame which has been provided for consultation on what is considered to be a significant issue, with potentially far-reaching implications for the residents of Hertfordshire and the work forces of the constabulary and fire service.
“Members also wish to raise a concern that the consultation has taken place during the summer holiday period. The Local Business Case does not provide sufficient detail for members to feel confident that they have all the necessary information to determine whether this is an appropriate way forward for these critical services.”
There were also fears that, if successful, the ambulance service may follow suit, and that the PCC could potentially recommend the fire service change to the Secretary of State regardless of the consultation’s responses.
The objection follows all 78 county councillors also voting against, as well as Hatfield Town Council.
However, PCC Lloyd previously said the plans would benefit both the service and public safety, and stressed that it would not affect operational control of either the police or fire service.
“I believe it makes sense for the fire and police service to work more closely together,” PCC Lloyd said.
“Having joint governance improves efficiency, provides exciting opportunities for collaborating and making the best use of our existing resources.”
He added: “By bringing the strategy and governance closer, it will speed up the pace of better collaboration between all our emergency services, which is great news for the public.”
The consultation will end on August 14.
Article originally appeared on WH Times
