Date of Request
12/04/25
Request
Hi,
I would like to know whether commercial entities get charged for repeated callouts to fires that arise as a direct result of their operations?
In particular, the heritage Severn Valley Railway line which during the summer months creates numerous and frequent embankment fires as a direct result of their train operations.
Many thanks in advance.
Response
Hi
We thank you for your request for information, which has been received by Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (the Service) and considered under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 2000
The Service can confirm that the information that you have requested is held and is as follows:
- I would like to know whether commercial entities get charged for repeated callouts to fires that arise as a direct result of their operations?
While the Service provides certain Special Services that can incur charges, the core firefighting functions of the Service are not chargeable.
- In particular, the heritage Severn Valley Railway line which during the summer months creates numerous and frequent embankment fires as a direct result of their train operations.
According to records dating back to 2014, the Service has not sent any cost recovery letters to Severn Valley Railway.
If you have any questions regarding your request, please contact Information Governance and Committee Services on tel: 0345 122 4454 or by e-mail informationrequests@hwfire.org.uk. In any such communication please include the reference number assigned (see Subject).
Should you have any queries regarding the management of your request and wish to make either a complaint or request a review of the information disclosed to you, please do so by using Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service’s complaints system: Comments and Complaints. This must be done within 40 working days of our response to your request. After this date and in line with ICO guidance the Service is not obliged to provide an internal review of your request.
If you are not satisfied with the outcome of the internal review, you may appeal the decision by contacting the Information Commissioner, Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AF, Tel: 0303 123 1113 (alternatively 01625 545745) or E-mail: casework@ico.org.uk.
Further information on Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service may be viewed at the Service’s website: www.hwfire.org.uk
Thank you for your request for information.
Kind regards
Information Governance Team