COMBINED FIRE BRIGADE.

Auckland Star, Volume LVI, Issue 184, 6 August 1925, Page 13

COMBINED FIRE BRIGADE.

A BIRKENHEAD PROPOSAL.

The necessity for fire-fighting appliances has been considered by the Birkenhead Borough Council, in view of recent occurrences in that-district. As an outcome, the Northcote Borough' Council had before it last evening a letter suggesting a combined brigade for the two boroughs. In this it was explained that the present arrangements were for the Northcote Brigade to attend any fires at Birkenhead, the expense of this being refunded by the Birkenhead Council. This arrangement was much appreciated by that council, and the very good work undertaken by . the 'Northcote Brigade was fully realised throughout Birkenhead. At the same time, the faulty telephone service and the distance that the brigade had to travel to reach various spots in Birkenhead somewhat detracted from the usefulness that .would otherwise accrue if the brigade was stationed nearer Birkenhead. The Birkenhead Council considered that the establishment of a separate brigade would not, considering the proximity of the respective districts', be economical or wise, and suggested that an up-to-date and efficient fire brigade be • established at a point central to each borough, the brigade to be such that would comply with the requirements of the Fire Underwriters' Association, to secure' reduction of fire insurance premiums, and the cost of the establishment and upkeep to be borne by Northcote and "Birkenhead boroughs pro rata. The Mayor, Mr. C. A. Deuxberry, said that Birkenhead had more service so far than Northcote from the brigade. The present .station was central for the volunteer .firemen, and removal of the site would need careful consideration.

It was agreed'that the finance committees of both councils should meet to discuss the suggestions from Birkenhead.