THE local NHS watchdog is officially opposing moves to merge Surrey and Hampshire ambulance services.
The West Surrey and North East Hampshire Community Health Council's rejection follows Hampshire Ambulance Service's earlier this month.
The CHC feels Hampshire ambulance chiefs' opposition is "understandable" and that the merger decision should be delayed to allow new NHS bodies to have their say.
In its official response to the on-going consultation on ambulances, the CHC says that the merger, proposed for next April, might impede Hampshire's improving service.
"Hampshire Ambulance Service standards are now well on their way towards achieving the required national standards of performance and it can be a legitimate concern that the prospect of a major and imminent reorganisation will not be conducive to maintaining the impetus of such improvements.
"Without the dedicated support of both ambulance trusts we believe a successful outcome to a merger is unlikely."
The CHC also says funding issues for the newly-merged ambulance trust could be another problem.
"After a number of years when their service standard has been the subject of some criticism, they are currently in receipt of a funding increase of £1.9 million. How such an increase would be carry over to the new trust is to say the least, obscure."
CHC members also believe the merger consultation should be delayed until April 1 next year, when the new Strategic Health Authority and Primary Care Trusts will come into being. They will have a responsibility in their healthcare buying and commissioning roles for ambulance services.
"Because of the timing of this consultation many of these bodies are disenfranchised," the CHC claims.
"We believe it would be irresponsible for this factor to be ignored."
The merger, which has already been opposed by South West Surrey MP Virginia Bottomley, will be decided by the south east regional office of the NHS in September.