The service covers an area of approximately 896 square miles that contrasts between rural and industrial landscapes. The fire authority, the publicly accountable body which manages the service, recently approved a major capital programme which includes funding the £17.5 million cost of four new stations and a safety centre from grants and reserves, without the need to take out loans. Chief Fire Officer Paul Hancock said: "I am delighted that despite the fact the authority is facing ongoing financial cuts, it has still agreed to invest in our frontline response and instead of closing stations, fund more.
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