To consider the Service Delivery Plan 2026/27 report (CFO/44/2526).

The Chief Fire Officer, Nick Searle presented the Service Delivery Plan for 2026–27, it was explained that the plan brought together actions from the Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP), functional plans, station plans, and performance indicators, and noted that the Authority was entering the final year of the current CRMP while beginning work on the post?2027 plan. Members were advised that that performance was monitored monthly by Officers and reported quarterly to the Strategic Leadership Team and Authority Committees. It was noted that each function had produced a new plan for 2026–27 and that internal scrutiny arrangements had been adjusted to give greater responsibility to directors and functional leads.

Councillor Hanratty welcomed the report and queried communication activity, noting the need for regular public messaging on seasonal risks such as barbecues and summer?related fires. He queried how the Authority ensured that safety themes were promoted throughout the year. The Chief Fire Officer stated that the corporate communications team used multiple channels, including social media, the website, and engagement with community groups, to share safety messages across Merseyside. It was confirmed that the Service worked continuously to maximise reach and engagement.

Director of Strategy and Performance, Deb Appleton added that communications followed national themes but also responded quickly to emerging local risks. It was reported that social media engagement was strong and that the small team planned content proactively while also reacting swiftly when required.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Ged Sheridan highlighted that while national NFCC seasonal campaigns continued, the Service was increasingly focusing on local, responsive prevention work, including refinements to Operation Bangor and realignment of resources following policing structural changes. It was highlighted that a water safety campaign would be launched in areas with historic issues. The importance of combining national themes with targeted local activity was noted.

Councillor Hanratty raised concerns following a vape shop fire in Scotland, noting the rapid growth of such premises across Merseyside. It was asked how the Service would promote fire safety compliance, ensure business owners understood their responsibilities, and consider inspections or other interventions. The Chief Fire Officer advised that the Authority would await the findings of the fire investigation in Scotland, but it was noted that Lithium Ion Batteries continued to present a significant sector wide risk. It was confirmed that the Authority had maintained a protection inspection programme across Merseyside to ensure premises complied with legal requirements and to provide assurance to the Authority.

Councillor Bell commented positively on the Service Delivery Plan, noting that the document was clear, accessible, and well designed. It was highlighted that the inclusion of a dedicated section on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion was particularly welcoming. A query was raised regarding whether the published version would be available in accessible formats, including text to speech. Deb Appleton advised that accessibility features were supported through the website’s “Site Me” project.

Councillor Hanratty highlighted that the Authority may wish to revisit previous involvement in heritage protection networks, given the number of listed and historically significant buildings in Merseyside.

The Chief Fire Officer confirmed that the former heritage protection network no longer operated, but the Authoritys work regarding Lithium-Ion Batteries awareness would continue.

RESOLVED that;

a)         the contents of the report and accompanying appendix be noted; and

b)         the attached Service Delivery Plan as contained in Appendix A before publication on the Authority’s website be approved.