The proposed merger would create one of the largest divisions in Scotland, serving almost 450,000 people across 3100 square miles stretching from the outskirts of Glasgow to the island of Tiree.

If plans go ahead, the divisional headquarters could move more than 25 miles from Helensburgh to Paisley - which is a main concern of people in the town.

Local police numbers and services is also a concern.

However, before any decision is made, more consultations will take place in local communities.

Chief Superintendent Swann said: “This is the end of the first phase. The force executive was given a report for their consideration.

“The update from that is that they have acknowledged the benefits that the proposal sets out and the opportunities. Having said that, they also acknowledge that there were strong feelings in the community.

“The first phase had brought out strong views which needed further exploration.

“We will be continuing consultation in particular themes, focussing on the main issues - such as Dumbarton’s office, and if the merger goes ahead where the headquarters would be.

“In Argyll and Bute, among the concerns that have been raised, as what that means for local policing and will people see a difference will there be a difference in the service. “We’ve already made a lot of effort to allay concerns - it was taken into account what was being expressed in communities.

“There are no fixed time scales, we are going to try to reach people in a variety of ideas, we are always open to taking questions.”