Judicial review into controversial Shropshire fire service plans coming this year

The hearing, set to take place on June 5 and 6, will be the final word in a fight that will have been going on for more than 15 months by the time it is heard.

PCC John Campion wants there to be a single joint commissioner for West Mercia Police, Shropshire Fire and Rescue and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue. He says the plans will save £4 million and will help drive transformation across both services.

But Councillor Eric Carter, chairman of Shropshire's fire authority, said the plans do not stand up. He will be joined in the review by representatives of Hereford and Worcester's fire authorities.

The Government approved Mr Campion's plans on March 26 last year.

Up to £70,000 was put aside by the fire authority to fight the decision.

“It’s disappointing that by the time this gets to court, it will be more than 15 months since the decision was made," Mr Campion said. "I do not feel this delay is in the best interests of our communities, or our Fire and Rescue Services and their staff.

“I stand firm that, prior to the judicial review, the right outcome was made following an extensive public consultation, full business case and an independent review. I now hope that a decision is reached in June that allows us to move forward and work together to deliver more effective and efficient services for our communities.”

Councillor Carter said: "The judicial review hearing in our fight against takeover by the police and crime commissioner will be heard in chambers in London on June 5 and 6.

"We hope that it comes to a successful conclusion."

Both Telford & Wrekin Council and Shropshire Council voted against the plans during the original public consultation.

Currently, fire and rescue services are overseen by authorities made up of councillors from across the region.

The government has said it wants to see a more joined-up approach in the way police and fire services work together.