An inquiry is being launched into delays and cost overruns of controversial plans that will see emergency fire calls made in Bath handled in Taunton.

The Parliamentary probe into the Government's national project which involves closing existing fire control rooms and replacing them with regional centres, comes amid continuing criticism of the move.

The Commons Communities and Local Government Select Committee will also examine any changes that need to be made to the plans, which have been dogged by hold-ups.

Under the move Avon Fire and Rescue's operations base at Lansdown is due to close and move to the regional headquarters in Somerset.

Thousands of pounds are being spent each day on running the regional fire control centre which will not be fully operational for nearly another two years.

And with the Government confirming delays to the project, critics warn that the bill could cost up to £1 million just to keep the building standing 'empty'.

Computer problems mean the start of the changeover to the regional centre was pushed back from this year to the summer of 2010, and is not expected to be completed until the following summer.

However, the Government insists the building is not empty and is being used to plan the changeover, and for "familiarisation events".