Plans to revamp Surrey's network of fire stations to improve emergency cover in the county were today given provisional approval by county decision-makers.

The announcement will see Surrey Fire and Rescue Service go ahead with detailed research between now and summer 2009 to: identify better locations for fire stations and identify which stations may require full rebuilds on the same location to improve working conditions for staff.

Many of Surrey's stations were built during the 1940's. Since then there have been changes to the boundaries of both London and Surrey, and many are also in poor condition and no longer fit for the purpose required by a modern fire service.

The service, which responds to more than 500 domestic fires every year, is now carrying out detailed research into potential response times and locations, before presenting a final proposal to the council in late 2009.

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Guildford fire station is already up for sale after the County Council agreed to rebuild a more modern station in the same location - at no cost to taxpayers - with on-site training for road collision training and better community access.

Helyn Clack, Surrey County Council's Executive Member for Safer Communities, said: "We are continually aiming to improve the service we deliver to Surrey's residents and businesses, and constantly review resources to ensure residents are getting the most from the fire service.

"Firstly, Surrey's stations were built during the 1940's and since then the shape of the county has changed. But Surrey itself has also changed significantly, with thousands more homes, more roads, new schools and a strong economy bringing more and more people to the area.

"Secondly, the role of a modern fire service has changed dramatically - we now undertake significant flood rescue work, and deal with more fatal road collisions each year than fatal fires.

"We therefore need to ensure the training facilities we have reflect this and give firefighters the appropriate training and resources to do an increasingly difficult and dangerous job."

(CD/JM)