Home Secretary Charles Clarke wants forces across the country to amalgamate to save cash and better use resources.

A fully-costed plan has now been requested as the next step towards the merger of the Northumbria, Durham and Cleveland forces.

The move has been backed by the Durham and Northumbria forces, but strongly rejected by Cleveland Police Authority.

Northumbria Chief Constable Mike Craik said: "We believe a strategic force will give everyone in the region the very best policing service possible.

'Preferred option'

"How local communities are policed will still be determined by local neighbourhoods but there will be changes in how these ground-level services are led and managed."

Durham Chief Constable Paul Garvin said: "We are happy to continue working on the regional model, widely agreed to be the option that would deliver the best operational service to the people of County Durham and Darlington."

However it has been rejected by Cleveland Police Authority which has instead called for the creation of a new Tees Valley City Region.

Cleveland Chief Constable Sean Price said: "This recommendation flies in the face of the wishes of the public and local businesses with whom I have consulted extensively over the issue of police reorganisation.

"The city force is my preferred option. I feel it is the best way in which the progress the force has made could be continued.

"I am therefore disappointed and surprised at this recommendation and shall be seeking urgent talks with the Home Secretary to discuss the matter."