CITY councillors have unanimously opposed a police chief's attempt to take control of the fire service.

West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) John Campion claims the move will save £4m per year.

Members of Worcester City Council who attended a briefing on Wednesday, August 2, reached a cross-party agreement to oppose the takeover.

The council will now send a letter of opposition to the PCC, before the consultation period ends on Monday, September 11.

Labour councillor Paul Denham thinks Mr Campion is attempting to build an empire.

He said: "I suppose it's part of his personality. Some people want to make their power base bigger.

"Although he would argue it's more democratic that everyone can vote for him, the reality is there's a lower turnout at PCC elections."

Cllr Denham was surprised that Conservative city councillors opposed the bid, given that the PCC is a member of their party.

Marc Bayliss, leader of the city council's Conservative group, described Mr Campion's bid as a 'power grab'.

Cllr Bayliss said: "It's right to stand up and speak out.

"[The chief executive of the PCC] made a presentation and the councillors had an opportunity to debate it.

"Everyone was opposed to it. There seems no clear rationale. I don't believe that it's right to try and cherry-pick other parts of the public sector."

The councillor said a possible compromise was making the PCC a full member of the Fire Authority, which would mean he could make proposals and vote.

Mr Campion said: "I look forward to receiving the council’s response to the consultation in due course.

"It will be considered alongside the others received following the deadline."

The commissioner wants to disband the Fire Authority, which is made up of Worcestershire and Herefordshire councillors.

He also wants to take over the responsibilities of Shropshire and Wrekin Fire and Rescue Authority.

He previously said he is not trying to 'build an empire' and is doing what is best for the emergency services and communities.

Mr Campion also denied that he was attempting a 'hostile takeover' and said he had massive confidence in the fire service.

To take part in the consultation go on http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/3617685/West-Mercia-Fire-and-Rescue-Governance-Consultation