PROPOSALS to close 12 fire stations, including Downham, New Cross and Woolwich, and axe 520 jobs have been rejected by the London Fire Authority.

The plan – aimed at saving £45m over the next two years – was discussed at length at a meeting of London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority (LFEPA) yesterday afternoon (January 21).

An amendment was made by Labour members, which was supported by Liberal Democrat and Green members of the Authority.

The amendment means the Authority has not agreed to consultation on the part of the plan that deals with the closure of fire stations, or loss of appliances or firefighters.

A London Fire Brigade spokesman said: “Over the coming days, the London Fire Commissioner Ron Dobson will be discussing with officers what this means in terms of setting the Authority’s budget and finding the savings of £45m that are still needed over the next two years.”