DORSET'S fire merger has been given the green light by the government.
The Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Authority (Combination Scheme) Order 2015 has now been published to legislation.gov.uk This Statutory Instrument gives the formal go-ahead to the merger that has been agreed locally.
Darran Gunter has been selected to head up the new combined Dorset and Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service.
Fire services minister Penny Mordaunt said: "I'm delighted that this locally-led merger is now going ahead as it will bring great benefits to the local fire and rescue service, and local people as a result.
"Back office collaboration frees up more funds and resources for the frontline."
The two fire authorities will merge from April 1, 2016.
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