Private security firms could police Bushey if the neighbourhood team is moved to central Watford, according to the leader of the Liberal Democrats in Hertsmere.

Councillor Roger Kutchinsky (Bushey North) warned that residents will be caught in a "policing postcode lottery" if the proposals are accepted.

Hertfordshire Police Authority's resource committee announced on Friday that the 127-year-old Bushey Police Station, in Sparrows Hearne, will close.

The move comes as the force looks to cut £36million from its budget in the next four years.

The authority also announced it is considering moving the Bushey Neighbourhood Team to be based in central Watford.

Councillor Roger Kutchinsky (Bushey North), leader of the Liberal Democrats in the borough, said: “I am horrified. People are going to get very, very angry about it. We can't have services being withdrawn without proper consultation or explanation.

“I think it is quite possible more people would turn to these private security companies if they do not feel the police are serving their area. There is already one on Hartsbourne Road and it could spread.”

The police authority also confirmed stations in Potters Bar, London Colney, Baldock and Watford, will close.

It is thought the move could save the authority about £220,000-a-year and generate £2.4million in capital receipts.

Brenda Griffiths, the Hertsmere representative for the police authority, defended the decision to close Bushey.

She said: “The Bushey station is not a building fit for the modern police landscape, though the local community is very fond of it. Just because the building is not there, accessibility to the police team will not be reduced.

“The team's activity will still be in the area and we hope it remains in Bushey, but nothing is an absolute given these days and we need to look at all the options – including moving to Watford.”

Hertsmere Borough Council also revealed it is in “initial discussions” with police chiefs over the possibility of moving the team to offices in the Bushey Golf and Country Club, in High Street.

Robert Gamble, chairman of the Bushey Forum and former Bushey St James councillor, said: “The team has to remain in Bushey. The idea of losing the station can be swallowed by most people, but to move it to Watford - that is a step too far.”