PROPOSALS to close Woolwich's fire station have been slammed by Nick Raynsford MP.

The Greenwich and Woolwich MP  says he has written to the London Fire and Emergency Planning (LFEPA) chairman James Cleverly to voice his concerns.

The closure is one of 12 planned across London as part of cost-cutting measures.

Mr Raynsford, also opposed to the area's proposed police station closures, said: "My real concern is that traffic congestion in Woolwich will mean fire appliances coming from Greenwich and Plumstead may encounter difficulties dealing with instances in the area.

"Whilst not opposed to efficiency savings which have no adverse affect on public safety, I will strongly dispute any proposals which could increase the risk of harm to people living in Greenwich and Woolwich.

"I want to know whether the LFEPA can give a cast-iron assurance that response times will not be affected and that the safety of my constituents can be guaranteed."