Lochgelly & Surrounding Communities Stand United
Lochgelly Community Council thanks you!
Lochgelly & the surrounding communities showed its strength and solidarity on Thursday 31st July as over 100 residents packed the public meeting at the Lochgelly Centre to oppose cuts to local fire services.
The turnout was a powerful reminder that this community will not stand by, while essential services are taken away. Families, firefighters, union representatives, elected officials, and concerned communities came together with one clear message:
Lochgelly & Surrounding Communities deserve safe, reliable fire coverage not "sufficient" spreadsheet based solutions.
At the public meeting, speakers shared heartfelt stories and hard evidence about the risks posed by reduced fire service provision. The room was filled with urgency, but also with hope that collective action can drive change.
Outside the fire station on Saturday 4th August, banners waved and Car Horns rang out as the community stood shoulder to shoulder with the Fire Brigades Union. The rally was peaceful but passionate, with strong support from passers-by and local media.
To everyone who attended, spoke, shared, or simply stood in solidarity: thank you. Your presence made a difference. Your voices are being heard. And your commitment is helping build a safer, more resilient future for our communities.
The rescheduled SFRS consultation meeting on the 1st September 2025 was also well attended. Again, Thank You to all who participated. The mood at the Lochgelly SFRS consultation meeting was a mix of disbelief, frustration, and resolutely assert. The consultation aimed to engage vulnerable groups like the elderly and families experiencing poverty, who may be disproportionately affected by changes to fire service delivery. The tone of the meeting suggests that many attendees felt their concerns weren’t being taken seriously and were dismissed by the SFRS.
An SFRS spokesperson stated that a fire engine from Dunfermline would have the same response time (if not better!) to a fire in Benarty as one from Lochgelly. This comment was met with widespread amusement and skepticism.
What’s Next?
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who took part in the recent Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) consultation regarding proposed changes to Lochgelly Fire Station. Whether you attended the public meetings, joined the rally, submitted feedback, or helped spread awareness, your voice has made a powerful impact. Our neighbouring community councils, Local Facebook pages, Councillors, MSPs & Our Local MP gave out the same powerful message that there should be no changes to Lochgelly Community Fire Station, Crew, Rope Rescue or appliances.
The turnout and passion from our community was extraordinary. From thoughtful questions to moments of sharp wit, your engagement reflected the deep care Lochgelly residents have for their safety and emergency services. Your participation has sent a clear message: our fire service matters.
Now that the consultation period has closed, SFRS will begin a full independent analysis of all responses received. This work is being overseen by an external research organisation to ensure transparency and fairness.
The final recommendations will be presented to the SFRS Board in December 2025. No decisions have been made yet, and all feedback including yours will be carefully considered before any changes are approved.
We’ll continue to keep you updated as the process unfolds. In the meantime, thank you again for standing up for Lochgelly and our neighbouring communities. Your commitment to our community’s safety is what makes it strong.
Together, we are stronger and together, we will protect what matters most.
