Super tram stops 'putting lives at risk'

Firefighters claim Melbourne's super tram stops are putting lives and property at risk, Seven News can reveal.

In a leaked email, obtained exclusively by Seven News, a senior fire officer exposes the level of concern as he pleads with his MFB bosses to prevent the construction of more super stops.

A leading firefighter for 27 years, he argues the stops, built to improve commuter convenience, act as road blocks and could put lives in danger.

The leaked email reads: "I have strong concerns that this design could lead to a delay in response and potential loss of life and extensive damage to property."

There are 360 tram super stops throughout Melbourne, and the long-term plan is to convert each of more than 1700 stops across the network.

United Firefighters Union (UFU) National Secretary Peter Marshall said the onus is on the Victorian Government and local councils to heed their public safety concerns.

"I've been around long enough and it's only after the loss of life that something is done," he told Seven News reporter Cameron Baud. "We're trying to prevent that by raising the issue now."

Firefighters claim they have been caught in gridlock numerous times since super stops were introduced 13 months ago along High Street, Northcote.

"We're trying to avoid a coronial inquest that's looking into the unnecessary loss of life due to this infrastructure being put in place," said Mr Marshall.

In a statement, the MFB said it works in conjunction with local councils and Yarra Trams around super stops.