A PUBLIC consultation into the future of Essex’s fire service – which could see hundreds of frontline jobs axed – gets underway today.

Essex Fire and Rescue Service’s 12-week consultation is asking for public views on three options for change.

The service has been told it will have to make savings of about £7million a year until 2020.

But it has justified frontline cuts by stating the number of emergency incidents the service attends has halved in the past decade.

Acting chief fire officer Adam Eckley said: “This consultation will shape the future role of Essex Fire and Rescue Service as we prepare for the future.

“These options ensure we continue to reduce risk, prevent injury and save lives across the county.

“There is now a 12-week window for everyone in Essex, Southend and Thurrock to have their say on our plans and let us know what they think.

“I would encourage everyone to get involved and make their voice heard.”

The first proposal, saving £8.6million, would axe 210 full-time firefighter posts, leaving 360 full-timers, and remove the second fire engine from seven stations, including Southend and Rayleigh.

Proposal two, saving £6.4million, would axe only 138 full-time firefighters and remove second engines from only five stations.

But a third option, to save £10million, would scrap 234 fulltime firefighter roles and remove second engines from seven stations.

Depending on which option is chosen, there will be between 14 and 18 full-time crews on call at any given time.

A service spokesman said: “These options prepare our service for a future with reductions in incidents, an increased focus on prevention and a commitment to become financially sustainable as reductions in funding continue every year to 2020.

“All of the options have a number of common factors including £3million of extra investment in prevention and protection, additional savings of over £2million from support functions and no fire station closures.”

For more information, visit essex-fire.gov.uk