Optimisation Modelling - Greenfield Stations

Methodology

Using optimisation modelling, ORH identified the optimal configuration of stations using a ‘blank-canvas’ approach – stations could be located anywhere within Nottinghamshire. The modelling considered the same number of stations (24) and pumping appliances (30) by duty system as the current position. Locations and appliances have been optimised against life risk incidents, whilst removing any demand on the main 4 prisons of Lowdham Grange, Ranby, Whatton, HMP Prison.

There are currently 13 wholetime, 1 day shift crewing and 16 on-call pumps operating across the county. NFRS currently operate with two double wholetime stations (London Road and Stockhill). ORH have created two optimal solutions:

• One where the requirement for two double wholetime stations continue to exist
• One where the requirement double wholetime stations is removed completely (therefore maximising first response performance).

It is important to understand that the solution provided here is the mathematical best solution and does not take into account things like operational practices, political barriers or financial constraints.

Once the optimisation runs were completed and scenarios generated, simulation modelling was used to assess the impact on modelled response performance. For these configurations it has been assumed that the OC crews have availability as per averages of the current pumps.

Results

Many of the optimised locations are close to existing stations and the general spread of stations is similar to the current deployment.

The optimal deployments with two double wholetime stations would improve average first response by around 31 seconds and second response by around 16 seconds across NFRS. When the requirement for two double wholetime stations is removed, first response improves by 42 seconds in total, but second response degrades by 15 seconds from the original base.

The model favours positioning one of the double wholetime stations in the Mansfield area, rather than having both of them in City of Nottingham and notable new station locations have been identified in the areas near to:

• Clifton
• Ollerton junction
• Beckingham

Exact co-ordinates of greenfield locations are provided in the appendix.

Appliance Summary - Greenfield Optimisation Configurations

Modelled Performance - Greenfield Optimisation Configurations