PROPOSED changes to the number of councillors serving Richmondshire District Council have been sanctioned as part of a drive to improve efficiency.

Councillors have given their approval to plans to reduce the member count by ten – to 24 – from 2019.

They were told the authority is now “oversized” and could operate and function with a 29 per cent reduction in members but still provide the right representation for the district’s residents.

The recommendation will now be considered by the Local Government Boundary Commission for England which will consult with local bodies and residents before making a final decision.

“The council has seen significant changes since the last review in 1999 – both in how its members govern and how decisions are made,” said chief executive Tony Clark.

“There are less meetings to attend and our research shows that a base of 24 members will enable the council’s governance and decision making to operate effectively and efficiently.

“There is an ongoing drive to increase efficiency and productivity within the authority and our members believe that it is right that they should be part of this – they will become more efficient in how they use their time on council business and in their interactions with residents, officers and stakeholders.”