South Wales is looking at a 5.75% hike in fire service costs for 2025, impacting local councils and residents alike
Cardiff: So, there’s talk about raising the fire service fees in South Wales by 5.75% next year. It’s part of the budget plans for 2025/2026.
The fire authority is chatting with local councils about this budget. They want to bump up the funding by £5.5 million, which would take the total from £95.84 million to £101.34 million.
This means Cardiff would see a rise of 7.66%, going from £23.14 million to £24.91 million. Newport isn’t far behind with a 5.82% increase, moving from £10.04 million to £10.62 million.
For Vale of Glamorgan, it’s a 5.42% jump, while Rhondda Cynon Taf would face a 5.39% increase. Other areas like Monmouthshire and Torfaen would also see similar hikes.
Even Blaenau Gwent and Bridgend are looking at increases, though they’re a bit lower. Caerphilly and Merthyr Tydfil are in the mix too, but with smaller percentages.
If it weren’t for the national insurance changes, the fire authority would’ve asked for a smaller increase. They’re basing these numbers on updated population data.
To keep up with pay inflation, they’re looking for an extra £4.3 million. The rest of the budget covers various costs like training and insurance.
Lisa Mullan, the fire service’s treasurer, mentioned in a recent council meeting that they’re expecting a flat level of grants. Councils have until January 30 to give their feedback on this proposal.
Last year, a big chunk of the fire service budget went to employee costs and pensions, with other expenses like training and supplies also taking a bite.
