Closure of three long-term dormant fire stations in Argyll & Bute and Isle of Arran

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Board has approved the closure of three long-term dormant fire stations that have been unable to respond to incidents for several years due to a lack of available firefighters. 

The stations at Colintraive and Kerrera in Argyll and Bute, and Corriecravie on the Isle of Arran, have remained non-operational for an extended period despite sustained efforts to recruit and retain sufficient on call firefighters. 

Communities in these areas have continued to receive emergency response throughout the period the stations have been dormant, with incidents responded to through existing operational arrangements and neighbouring resources. The closure of the stations will not alter those arrangements. 

The decision follows the conclusion of a formal staff redundancy consultation process and forms part of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s nationwide Service Delivery Review, which exists to ensure operational resources across Scotland are matched to risk and demand. 

Changes to more than 30 fire stations were announced in June 2026, including the closure of five long-term dormant stations without staff at Crianlarich in Stirlingshire, Fetlar in Shetland, and Nethy Bridge, Ratagan and the Isle of Muck in Highland. 

Chief Officer Stuart Stevens said: "While we understand that the closure of any fire station is significant, it is important to emphasise that these stations have been non-operational for a number of years. Despite local efforts over a prolonged period, we have been unable to recruit and retain sufficient on call firefighters to make these stations operational. 

"Throughout that time, emergency response has continued to be provided through existing operational arrangements and that will not change as a result of this decision. 

"This decision follows a thorough and considered process, including formal consultation with affected staff and engagement with representative bodies. I would like to recognise the colleagues affected by this decision and thank them for their commitment to their local communities, and for their professionalism and engagement throughout the consultation process." 

More information on the SFRS Service Delivery Review: Service Delivery Review | Scottish Fire and Rescue Service