Wallsend ward councillor Gary madden has raised concerns on behalf of his constituents, about the announcement for the possible closure of Wallsend fire station by Tyne and Wear fire authority. He has spoken to the elected mayor norma redfearn, and has been given assurances that there will be a full and open engagement process, before the fire authority make their decision. Councillor Madden

Wallsend ward councillor Gary mmdden has raised concerns on behalf of his constituents, about the announcement for the possible closure of Wallsend fire station by Tyne and Wear fire authority. He has spoken to the elected mayor Norma Redfearn, and has been given assurances that there will be a full and open engagement process, before the fire authority make their decision. Councillor Madden said, " I will be working hard to engage with residents and businesses to seek out their opinions, in particular to the impact assessments around a vibrant north bank of the Tyne full of engineering activity. The Wallsend area has always had a fire station as a consequence of the high number of homes and the vast array of industrial companies in the area. It is also important for inward investors to know they have essential public services nearby to mitigate potential business risks. I hope that the consultation period enables the views and opinions to be seriously considered before a decision is finally required and I know that this is a vital public interest matter that needs to demonstrate openness and honesty throughout the whole process"