Is directly elected mayor on cards?

High Peak residents are being asked to have their say on the possible future leadership of the Borough Council. Legislation brought in by the previous Government means that High Peak Borough Council has to change the way it is run from May 2011 with two options available. The Council can either have a new-style Leader with a Cabinet or a Mayor directly elected by voters.

Currently, HPBC has a designated Leader and a group of Executive councillors who have been approved by the whole Council. Each Executive Councillor has a special area of responsibility. At the present time the Mayor's role is almost entirely ceremonial.

The "new-style" Leader outlined in the Local Government Act of 2007 would be appointed for four years instead of one, and would choose between two and nine councillors for the Cabinet Executive without needing full Council approval.

The Leader could also dismiss Cabinet Members during this period as well as the Council being able to remove the Leader during their term of office if they see fit.

The elected Mayor option would see a Mayor voted in by local residents. The Mayor could then choose his or her own Cabinet Executive members without needing councillors' approval. The Mayor cannot be removed from office during tenure.

While the new Coalition Government has said it intends to repeal the Act at some point, it has also made it clear that councils need to carry out the consultation and adoption process in time for May 2011.

Anyone wishing to help the Borough Council decide on which option to choose can either visit the website to complete an online survey at www.highpeak.gov.uk/consultation or put their comments in writing to the Corporate Policy Team, Assistant Chief Executive's Office, High Peak Borough Council, Hayfield Road, Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak, Derbyshire, SK23 0QJ.

The closing date for submission is Friday September 10.