Poor response to mayoral question

Nottingham and Nottinghamshire are unlikely to opt for an elected mayor after a poor response to a recent public consultation.

Residents were asked if they were in favour of electing a mayor - 89 people replied with 53 in favour and 36 backing a council leader and cabinet.

Councils across the UK are carrying out consultations under the terms of the 2007 Local Government Act.

The county council will recommend a leader and cabinet model in December.

Low response

County council leader David Kirkham said: "I am concerned, as leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, that we get the best value for money for the county's taxpayers. I don't think we're getting value for money with a mayor.

"Fifty thousands pounds a year for an extra politician in Nottinghamshire - is that really what people want?

"I believe the low response rate to the consultation shows there is little public interest in changing a system that works.

"Therefore I shall be recommending a leader and cabinet model to full council on 4 December."

Mansfield is the only council in the East Midlands with an elected mayor.

Mansfield Mayor Tony Egginton, who was elected in October 2002, said he was disappointed at the decision not to introduce the position at the county and city levels.