A MERGER of firearms and road policing functions between two police forces could lead to fewer officers.

A collaboration between Cleveland and Durham forces to create a joint firearms and road policing unit was confirmed yesterday. It is expected to save £750,000 a year.

It emerged that despite previous assurances there would be no reduction in numbers, 14 police officers could be lost, balanced against six new police staff jobs.

A Durham Police Authority spokeswoman said: “This initiative is aimed at providing value for money to the public while delivering an equal or improved service, and it will do that.

“Between the two forces, this venture will ultimately release 14 police officers from this area of business while providing an additional six police staff posts.”

She said the 14 officers would be transferred to other areas or not replaced through retirement, with the timing of changes dependent on the Government spending review.

She said: “Either way, the joint unit has been designed to, and will provide for, at least the same level of service as at present, but at reduced costs.”

The unit will have responsibility for firearms operations and training, roads policing, including patrols, collision investigation, traffic management and safety cameras.

Cleveland Police Authority chairman Councillor Dave McLuckie said: “It clearly makes sense to examine ways in which forces can collaborate in those areas where it can improve the service and achieve greater efficiency.”

Five years ago, Cleveland objected to a full merger with Durham and Northumbria forces, before the plans were shelved by the Government.

Durham is voluntarily exploring a merger with Northumbria to save money.