TALKS on plans to axe firefighter jobs and fire stations are vital, said a top councillor.

Clr David Ridgway, who chairs West Yorkshire’s Fire Authority, has implored people to get involved in consultations over the plans.

Fire chief Simon Pilling will next week outline plans which will see the closure of fire stations including Elland, Brighouse, Dewsbury and Batley.

They will be replaced by new stations in Rastrick and Batley Carr, but the cuts could see 102 firefighter jobs lost.

Colne Valley’s Clr Ridgway has underlined the importance of consultation on the possible future of fire cover across West Yorkshire.

Chief Fire Officer Pilling said the emergency fire cover review he ordered last year had identified critical areas of over and under provision which should not be ignored.

Clr Ridgway explained that the chief’s recommendations followed not only extensive research and professional input from inside the brigade but that the data had also been verified by independent experts.

“Make no mistake that we have gone through the most thorough review of fire cover ever seen in West Yorkshire and although significant change is only proposed in certain station areas every fire station, appliance and resource has been looked at.”

Clr Ridgway stressed that although the prospect of losing up to £18m in central government grant over the next four years was important contextually it was essential to recognise that the technical and professional cases for change were separate and reflected the brigade’s legacy of old and poorly-sited building stock.

“However, the authority recognises the unique position fire stations have in our communities and we will certainly want to hear the views and listen to the concerns of local people before making any final decisions. Trying to balance operational needs with local aspirations may be difficult but that’s our job and we will act responsibly and in good faith.”