A PUBLIC meeting to discuss proposed fire service changes sparked a massive wave of protest this week.

More than 500 concerned householders turned up at Greasby Methodist Church Hall on Monday to have their say over the plans, so many that the venue could not cope with the numbers and 300 had to wait outside.

Feelings ran high as a consultation exercise began into the merger of two West Wirral fire stations into a single unit at Greasby.

Merseyside fire authority is proposing to close West Kirby and Upton stations and build a new base serving both areas at Frankby Road, Greasby.

There were boos and cries of "shame" as it was revealed the new station would be built on the site of the village's library, which would be demolished and a smaller service built into the new complex.

It was also revealed the new building would feature a four-storey training tower.

Greasby resident Peter Harrison said: "As one of the hundreds outside, I think our treatment was very poor.

"The fire chief really struggled to persuade the crowd to leave.

"It looks like this scheme is being railroaded through. It will be a disaster for Greasby and unsafe for rest of Wirral."

Chief fire officer Dan Stephens said: "I want to put to rest any idea that the outcome of this consultation is a done deal - it isn't.

"Moving to a single station in Greasby would release significant savings.

"The reality is maintaining the status quo is not an option.

"My recommendation is to merge West Kirby and Upton stations and that will not change."

The proposals are subject to a 12-week consultation.

Greasby Conservative councillor Wendy Clements told the Globe: "The people have spoken. They do not want this."

A Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service spokesman said: "We were expecting a large number of residents which is why we chose the largest venue in Greasby.

"We also have further meetings planned in Woodchurch tonight and Hoylake on Thursday evening which anyone can attend.

"A further meeting will also be organised in Greasby in the coming weeks which will have provided everyone with an opportunity to hear the proposals and have their say."

Tonight's meeting takes place at the Activity Hall at Woodchurch High School in Carr Bridge Road, Woodchurch from 7pm to 8pm.

Thursday's meeting will be held at Hoylake Parade Community Centre in Hoyle Road, Hoylake from 6-7.pm.