Lancashire Combined Fire Authority (CFA) has approved a £80.5 million budget to run Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) in 2026-27.
A five-year plan to make vital investment in buildings and training facilities was also approved, which will enable the Service to continue providing an outstanding fire and rescue service in Lancashire.
To support the budget, council tax will increase by £5 a year*, with 75% of people backing the rise in a public consultation. Even with the increase, LFRS remains one of the lowest‑cost services in the country, at £1.82 per week*.
Although the Service’s funding has not kept pace with inflation, a balanced budget has been achieved through smarter ways of working and better use of resources which have created efficiencies.
Investment in the future of the Service remains a priority and savings are necessary to achieve this and meet our financial challenges going forward.
County Councillor Ged Mirfin, Chair of the CFA, said: “I am pleased that despite a real-term cut in government funding and continued financial pressures, we have set a balanced budget that supports vital investment in the future of the Service.
“Savings are necessary over the coming years to deliver this investment however the Service is proactively driving efficiencies by using data and digital innovation to operate differently. This agenda is led by a firm commitment to maintaining excellent public services and providing the best possible value for money for the people of Lancashire.
“Members of the Authority will continue to engage with the government on funding going forward.”
Investment plans are centred on redeveloping the Service’s Leadership and Development Centre, Preston Fire Station and Service headquarters into modern facilities that are fit for the future.
Work is currently underway on a Community Risk Management Plan which sets out how the Service will make Lancashire safer. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to take part in the first phase of consultation, open until 15 March, at www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk/future.
In 2025, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service set the national benchmark for excellence, achieving the best performance in the country in His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services’ inspection programme.
* Applies to a Band D property.
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