PLANS to see the constabulary’s ‘blue lamp’ hung outside fire stations in rural areas like Newent, Cinderford and Sydney took a step closer to reality this week - with Government backing.

Policing and Fire Services Minister Nick Hurd MP has thrown his hat into the ring to support a proposed merger of Gloucestershire’s ‘blue light’ emergency services.

His support for closer links between Police and Fire Services strengthens the hand of Police Commissioner Martin Surl who has faced fierce opposition from county council Conservative and LibDem groups.

Mr Surl’s proposals - endorsed by Mr Hurd - include developing Gloucestershire’s retained fire stations as joint police and fire stations - particularly in rural areas like Newent, Cinderford and Lydney.

In a letter to the commissioner, Mr Hurd said, “The Government wants to see greater pace and ambition in emergency services collaboration and we are committed to supporting Police and Crime Commissioners in seeking greater involvement in the governance of fire and rescue.

“I welcome the work you have done with the consultants and I am encouraged that the report has identified a number of benefits that could be driven by a change in governance of Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, including areas such as estates, community safety and transparency.”

Mr Surl said: “Some of the things I hope we can achieve through a closer relationship have already been done successfully in other parts of the country and I am encouraged by the county council’s desire for greater collaboration that will enable us to do just as well.”