London Fire Bridge has rejected claims its frontline service is being compromised by poor equipment and fire engines.
Firefighters raised fears over the finances of AssetCo – the company that owns all the brigade’s engines and equipment.
AssetCo agreed a deal with its bankers and shareholders to cut its debts to £42m from £120m, according to The Observer. It had planned to sell off the London operation but no buyer was found. Instead it is likely the London arm of the company will be restructured.
In light of this, the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) said old engines have been brought back into frontline service. Ben Sprung, London regional organiser told info4fire that corners are being cut with old engines being used.
He said: “We have had machines break down. Machines are dying. There are more examples of frontline engines and parts being moved – quality is suffering.”
London Fire Brigade dismissed the claims. It said: “To suggest that the frontline fire service we provide has been compromised by AssetCo’s financial difficulties is complete nonsense. Our figures show that London’s fire engines have continued to be maintained and [are] available as normal.
“AssetCo should now be on a more stable financial footing. However, throughout recent months, we have ensured that regardless of the company’s fate, London’s fire engines would be safe.”
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