A STRATEGIC review of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) cannot be a smokescreen for further cuts, the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) warned today.

Figures by the SFRS show that almost half its 356 fire stations are deemed to be in “poor or bad” condition, while two-thirds are more than 30 years old.

Fourteen fire stations also have issues with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) panels and have had temporary supports installed to reinforce roofing.

The service has launched a public survey to develop options for how the service could be changed, ahead of a consultation this year.

In response, an FBU spokesperson said that the union’s research has highlighted the state of the service among other issues, including the need to immediately address the impact of fire contaminants on firefighter health, and the quality of training.

The spokesperson said: “The FBU welcomes SFRS recognising what our members said in ‘firestorm’ and will fully and constructively engage with the strategic review.

“We share the view that there are huge issues to be addressed, most fundamentally how to deliver the funding and investment required for a modern, well trained and equipped fire and rescue service.

“While giving our commitment to engage meaningfully in this review process, we want to make clear to the Scottish government and SFRS that we will not allow this exercise to be a smokescreen for further cuts to firefighter jobs, or other measures that negatively impact the emergency response Scotland’s communities require.”

Community safety minister Siobhan Brown said: “Whatever changes may be considered by SFRS in the future, I have absolute faith that the safety of our communities will remain steadfastly the service’s top priority.”