FIREFIGHTERS in Hertfordshire are discussing proposals that could see an end to the industrial dispute but would cement the closure of Bovingdon and Radlett fire stations.

Last week's planned 48-hour strike was dramatically suspended after "positive discussions" between the county council and the Fire Brigades Union (FBU).

But at a public meeting organised by the Save Bovingdon Fire Station Action Group on Monday, residents were horrified to hear these new proposals have renegotiated almost every point of the Community Safety Plan, except the closures of Bovingdon and Radlett.

Watford would keep its second night-time pump if the new plans were agreed.

A Herts Fire and Rescue Service representative said: "A number of concessions have been made by the authority over the past few weeks. As we are still in negotiations with the Fire Brigades Union it would not be appropriate for us to discuss those concessions at this time."

Jamie Fyfe, Bovingdon station commander, said: "The fire service have lost out big time. They put forward loads of plans and all they're left with is closing two part-time stations. Cuts of £800,000 have gone down to £200,000. It's outrageous they've achieved very little."