Durham Constabulary and Northumbria Police are considering a merger and a detailed report on its viability is to be produced.

The decision to continue talks on a possible merger was made at separate police authority meetings last week. Both authorities were presented with a short assessment detailing the operational benefits of a merger and both authorities requested that talks continue.

An in-depth report highlighting the benefits to operational policing, including frontline and protective services, and how a merger could create more financial resilience, is expected to be presented to the two authorities later this year, at which stage they will seek the views of their local communities.

Peter Thompson, chair of Durham Police Authority, said it is determined to provide policing services that its communities want. “But to do this we may need to look at new ways of working which could make the two forces even more efficient and effective. Members agreed that a possible merger with Northumbria is one option and from the initial assessment we think it is worth exploring this option further.”

Councillor Mick Henry, chair of Northumbria Police Authority said: “One of our key roles is to consider how policing in Northumbria can be developed and improved in the future. One option that might be of potential benefit – and provide even more efficient and effective policing services – is a merger with Durham. Members, therefore, took the decision for the talks with Durham Police Authority to continue and for a detailed report to be produced.”

Earlier this month, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire police authorities voted on whether to consult the public on a merger but, following a letter from the Policing Minister advising a closer look at collaboration, Hertfordshire voted to defer their decision and any prospect of a merger now looks unlikely (see PP214, p7).