A PETITION has been launched against what has been described as an “outrageous” decision to close Liscard Jobcentre and transfer staff and services to Birkenhead.

A consultation is currently underway with workers and unions over the move, which is due to take place in June.

Many people have slammed the decision by the Department for Work and Pensions, including Wallasey MP Angela Eagle.

An online petition has so far gathered 307 signatures – 10,000 signatures are needed before the Government has to respond, with 100,000 needed until it can be debated in Parliament.

The petition states: “This vital services is required by many in a borough with a population of nearly 60,000 people. The alternative is for many to travel out of town at a cost and distance to obtain face-to-face help and assistance.

“This unacceptable action for a town of this size will affect the vulnerable.”

There are currently 117 people working at the Jobcentre, in Dominick House on St Alban’s Road. The DWP said there will be no job losses, with staff located to Birkenhead.

Wallasey MP Angela Eagle said: “The Government’s decision to close the Jobcentre in Liscard has come completely out of the blue with no notice whatsoever.

“It is outrageous that the Government has done this when Parliament is not sitting. It is a reckless decision and will cause massive disruption for those looking for work or those needing advice about Social Security support.

“Unemployment is still dangerously too high in Wallasey - this will just make matters even worse.”

A spokesman for the DWP said: “Staff from Wallasey Jobcentre Plus will be relocating to Birkenhead.

“There are no job losses expected and no impact on services or our claimants.”