Fire plans examined at school meeting

Plans for a controversial new fire station in the Black Country have come under the spotlight at a special community consultation event.

Halesowen fire station is due to shut and a new station is to be built to cover both Halesowen and Cradley Heath. In the interim, Halesowen will be covered from Cradley Heath.

Campaigners had battled to save the Halesowen station, but last week admitted defeat in their bid to force court action.

The location of the new station is yet to be decided, but fire chiefs have given residents the opportunity to discuss with fire bosses their concerns and select a preferred design of building.

A three hour consultation event was held at Reddall Hill Primary School in Cradley Heath at the weekend. This was the second of two consultation meetings.

Michael Bird who has lived in Halesowen for 50 years said when he heard about the plan he was very concerned.

He said: "It is worrying, I didn't really like the idea when I heard about it. After seeing the plans and talking to the officers I am more reassured about what they are planning to do."

The 65-year-old from Chadbury Road said: "It was good to see the designs, but it needs to be kept in keeping with the area. It does all depend on where it will be built though."

Assistant Chief Fire officer Phil Loach said feedback from residents was positive.