South Wales Fire and Rescue Service plans to close Blaina Fire Station have attracted criticism from both resident and local firefighters.
On 1st February 1996, the community was rocked by a housefire on Zephaniah Way that killed five-year-old Daniel Harford and local firefighters Steven Griffin and Kevin Lane.
Blaina firefighters were granted the ‘freedom of the borough’ by Blaenau Gwent Council in recognition of their efforts to fight the fire and save those involved.
Additionally, an investigation into the fire also led to higher national standards in training for firefighters in using breathing apparatus.
Fire Brigades Union South Wales Brigade Secretary, Mark Watt, said:
“This closure would slow response times and increase the risk of death, injury and loss of property among the community.
“This is a highly contentious issue, as the closure would leave the poorest areas in Europe without a fire station.
“It’s also highly emotive, as after the tragedy on Zephaniah Way firefighters and local residents pledged to do everything we could to ensure that the memories of those two fallen brothers were not forgotten.
“Blaina Fire Station has been vital to the history and development of the UK fire service and we must make sure it stays open.”
