TYNE-TEES and Border television news will merge if ITV's controversial review goes ahead.

The broadcaster yesterday announced plans to slash the number of its regional bulletins from 17 to nine, as part of a five-year plan.

Under the plans, Tyne-Tees and Border, which covers Cumbria and the Scottish Borders, will become one region, although it is not yet understood how this will affect staff.

Broadcasting unions are warning that the move could have a dramatic effect on the quality of regional television news.

Sharon Elliott, supervisory official for broadcasting union Bectu, said: "We envisage that viewers will not get the kind of coverage that they currently enjoy. Response to key stories may be delayed as a result of fewer staff, and it stands to reason that if you take money out of this service, it will be adversely affected."

Bectu estimates that spending on news will be cut from about £90m to between £50 and £60m, and called on broadcasting regulator Ofcom to take action.

ITV News employs 1,045 staff nationwide, and although the organisation would not be drawn on how many jobs would be lost as a result of the proposals, it is understood that hundreds are in jeopardy.

Chairman Michael Grade said: "Inevitably, there will have to be some redundancies, but at this point in time I don't think its helpful to throw numbers around."

Paul McLaughlin, National Union of Journalists national broadcasting organiser, said: "Plans announced today would drastically reduce local news in the UK.

"This is a vital service for viewers, and ensures that politicians and local organisations are held to account.

"The union opposes any reduction in the quality and service to viewers, and we are calling upon all those who care about the future of quality broadcasting to back our campaign."

Michael Jeremy, director of ITV Regions, said in a letter to journalists: "The new combined programmes we are proposing today - if approved by Ofcom - will be well- resourced, well-produced and able to offer viewers high-quality journalism and content that celebrates the life of our regions.

"In four of the new services, we will also be offering extra local material for different parts of the region."