MP Gordon Birtwistle said it ‘makes sense’ to consider closing dozens of ambulance stations.

North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) has launched a review of all 109 bases in the region, saying many are in a poor condition and cost too much to maintain.

They will look to share premises already used by other NHS or emergency services, such as Darwen Fire Station or Rossendale Health Centre.

Three new ‘hubs’ are also proposed, which would be bigger, modern facilities in Merseyside, Blackpool and North East Manchester.

Union bosses have criticised the move.

But Mr Birtwistle, MP for Burnley, said: “Certainly in Burnley’s case I think the ambulance base should be on the new fire station site. I think it makes sense to look at this.”

Those stations at risk of possible closure and sell-off include Broad Oak Road, Accrington; Burnley Road, Altham; George Street West, Blackburn; Trafalgar Street, Burnley; Princess Avenue, Clitheroe; George Street, Darwen; Rakehouse Road, Nelson and Commercial Street, Stacksteads.

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