SOUTH Hams District Council and West Devon Borough Council have now launched their consultation on a proposal to create one single new council.

Although South Hams and West Devon already share one workforce their political structures and decision making processes have remained completely separate.

However, in July the majority of councillors from both authorities voted to consult the public, their partners and local businesses on whether they should bring the two political structures together and create one council.

South Hams and West Devon say that this would save them half-a-million pounds a year and go towards closing a predicted funding gap of £1.9 million by 2020.

However, before they decide whether they would like to submit a proposal to the Secretary of State, who will make the final decision, the councils would like the public to have their say.

The consultation is now open and closes on Sunday, October 8.

It will take a number of different forms. There is a dedicated website, including an online survey and every household will receive a postcard telling them how they can find out more information.

Between now and the beginning of October, the councils will also be holding events in towns and parishes, where people will be able to talk to their councillors and find out more information.

After the consultation closes, councillors from both authorities will consider the feedback from it and make their final decision whether to submit to the Secretary of State or not, at full council meetings towards the end of October.

For all of the information on the consultation visit: www.onecouncil.org.uk .