The Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Fire Authority met on Wednesday 16 September 2026 to discuss the redevelopment of High Wycombe Fire Station, review the findings of the latest HMICFRS inspection report, and consider performance management data. The meeting also included updates on the Armed Forces Covenant and the Fire Brigades Union's Improvement Agenda.

High Wycombe Fire Station Redevelopment - Business Case

The Authority was scheduled to consider a business case for the comprehensive refurbishment and reconfiguration of High Wycombe Fire Station. The report highlighted significant condition, suitability, and infrastructure limitations of the existing building, which opened in 1966. It was proposed that the preferred option would be to refurbish and reconfigure the existing station, extending its serviceable life by at least 50 years, at an estimated capital cost of £8 million. This option was recommended as it offered the best balance of operational outcomes, affordability, deliverability, whole-life asset performance, and planning risk, particularly in light of the station's location within Flood Zone 3. The recommendation was conditional on the Stage 3 design demonstrating that all mandatory operational, contaminant control, equality, diversity, inclusion (EDI), accessibility, environmental, and structural requirements could be achieved within the retained building.

His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) - Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) Inspection Report 2025-27

The Authority was scheduled to consider the latest HMICFRS inspection report for Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS), published on 14 August 2026. The report provided graded judgments across ten areas, with BFRS receiving Good in six areas and Adequate in four. Notably, there were no Causes of Concern or formal recommendations, indicating an improvement from previous inspections. The report highlighted eight Areas for Improvement (AFIs), a reduction from previous rounds, and identified one Innovative Practice related to the leadership and behaviour framework. The report commended BFRS for its progress, particularly in understanding risk, prevention, workforce well-being, and financial management, while noting areas for further development in operational learning and debriefing, and ensuring IT projects are well managed.

Performance Management Q1

A recommendation from the Executive Committee was scheduled for noting, concerning the Performance Management report for Quarter 1 of 2026/27. This report detailed the Service's performance against 56 specific measures across the six objectives of the Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP): reducing risk and keeping the community safe; protecting people from risk in the built environment; responding quickly and effectively to emergencies; an inclusive, healthy and engaged workforce; making the most of finances and assets; and optimising technology and data. The report indicated that 13 measures were rated Blue (exceeding target), 21 Green (within target), 10 Amber (below target), and 9 Red (significantly below target). Specific highlighted measures included an increase in deliberate primary fires and higher than expected accidental non-domestic property fires.

Armed Forces Covenant Update Presentation

A presentation was scheduled to provide an update on the Armed Forces Covenant. Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service holds a Gold Award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, signifying its advocacy for the Armed Forces community, sustained support for reservists and veterans, and efforts to influence other employers. The update was expected to cover national transition engagement, regional and local collaboration, volunteering as Armed Forces Champions, sector-wide network membership, participation in remembrance events, and internal commitment to supporting reservists and veterans.

Other Business

The agenda also included the approval of minutes from the previous Fire Authority meeting on 10 June 2026, a review of matters arising from previous meetings, disclosure of interests, Chairman's announcements, and the receipt of petitions and questions. Additionally, the Authority was scheduled to consider the appointment of the Director of People and note the date of the next meeting. The agenda also included a provision to exclude the press and public for specific items relating to individuals and financial/business affairs, followed by the approval of exempt minutes.