A POLICE boss’s bid to take over the fire service has sparked concerns about maintaining ‘excellent cover’ in Malvern.

West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) John Campion claims he can save £4m a year by incorporating Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service into his role.

Councillors discussed Mr Campion’s proposal to take over the two fire authorities at the Malvern Hills District Council overview and scrutiny meeting on Thursday, July 27.

David Chambers, leader of the council, wrote to the PCC: “The Malvern Hills district is very rural and the hills pose a fire and rescue risk and we would wish to see the excellent cover maintained.

“There has been some concern raised by councillors that a democratic deficit could be created by replacing the councillors who sit on both fire authorities with a single person.”

Cllr Chambers proposed that increased cooperation between the two fire services in West Mercia would be a more effective route and could help to deliver savings.

He also questioned how £4m would be saved every year through the takeover and asked that for the independence of the business case to be demonstrated.

Mr Campion said: "As is outlined in the initial business case, any potential change in governance would be focused on improving frontline services rather than damaging them."

The consultation deadline is on Monday, September 11.