ROAD closures will be in place this Saturday as protesters take their campaign to the streets of Bewdley in a last-ditch attempt to save the town's fire station from closure.
Work on the new £7million Wyre Forest Hub is nearing completion, meaning fire crews from Stourport, Bewdley and Kidderminster will soon be moved to Station Road.
But the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) says the resulting closure of Bewdley Fire Station will put people's lives at risk, and campaigners will hold a march through the town this weekend in an effort to send a message to Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.
Tony Raybould, chair of the Save Bewdley Fire Station campaign, said: "This is a most important day for the people of not only Bewdley, but the whole of the Wyre Forest area.
"We urge people to join our march and rally to send a resounding message that the closure of Bewdley Fire Station is unacceptable to our community and those who live, work and visit here."
Campaigners formed a human chain around the Dog Lane station last month and Saturday's march will be led by a specially-adapted fire engine provided by the FBU.
Union spokesman Neil Bevan said: "The FBU have been overwhelmed by the public’s response.
"We’re really grateful to all who have supported the campaign and look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday.
"No one can deny that the residents of Bewdley have made their opinions and strength of feeling known.”
The march, which starts at Bewdley Leisure Centre at 10.30am, will be followed by a rally at the fire station which ends at midday.
Speeches will be delivered by Tony, Neil, Kidderminster district councillor Nigel Knowles and Labour spokesman Stephen Brown, who said: "The fire authority’s own data shows it will reduce response times and reduce fire cover, all while you’re expected to pay more for it.
"They always pick on Wyre Forest, they see us as a soft touch. Not anymore. Join us and show them you’ve had enough.”
But the fire service maintains there will be "no reduction in the number of fire engines", while the new hub will allow emergency services to "co-operate more closely and effectively".
A spokesman previously said: "The fire authority has concluded that a hub station will continue to provide effective fire cover for the Wyre Forest area in a more sustainable and cost-effective way than at present.
"In addition, it will provide state of the art accommodation, training and response facilities fit for the 21st century."
Stourport Road, Beales Corner and Load Street will be closed from 10.30am to midday for the march.
There is limited parking at Bewdley Leisure Centre and Stourport Road so those travelling to the event by car are encouraged to use town centre car parks.
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