Christian welcomes cut in Douglas Council membership

The leader of Douglas Council says a reduction in the authority’s membership will help tackle a perception that the capital is ‘over-governed’ at a local level.

An order was passed in Tynwald this week (9 April), when national politicians approved the cut in councillors from 18 down to 12.

The number of wards in the borough will also drop from six to four, mirroring the constituencies for elections to the House of Keys.

The changes will come into effect ahead of the local authority elections in 2020.

David Christian, who’s long campaigned for fewer councillors, says the reduction demonstrates the local authority’s willingness to modernise.

He believes the new system of wards will also foster a greater spirit of cooperation between councillors and MHKs, and avoid confusion amongst members of the public.