Members of the public are being asked for their views on controversial plans to create a single council from the merger of South Hams and West Devon.

South Hams District Council and West Devon Borough Council already share one workforce, as swingeing cuts in funding by central government forced them to make efficiencies and shed large numbers of jobs.

But up to now, the political structures and decision making processes in the two Conservative-controlled authorities have remained completely separate.

However, in July the majority of councillors from both authorities voted to consult the public on whether they should bring the two political structures together and create what they are calling ’One Council’.

The move is controversial as it would mean a council tax rise for South Hams residents, in the nine per cent of the total that currently goes to the district council. South Hams householders’ rates would need to be equalised with the cash-strapped West Devon, although the rise may be phased in over ten years.

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

The consultation is open until Sunday, October 8, after which the two will decide whether to submit a proposal to the Government.

It will be carried out through a dedicated website, 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 can talk to their councillors and find out more information.

SHDC leader Cllr John Tucker said: “I really would encourage everyone to take a look at the information that we have provided, there are many things for people to consider, particularly for the residents of South Hams, who would see a council tax increase on the South Hams element of their council tax, to bring it to the same level as West Devon.

“Our working relationship with West Devon so far, has been fundamental to our ability to keep delivering services despite budget cuts and we have actually benefited more from this than West Devon have. The shared workforce arrangement currently saves South Hams £3.9m a year and West Devon £2.2m a year, which has so far enabled us to keep our element of the council tax at a lower rate.

“For me, I see the creation of a new council as a natural extension of our current working arrangements. It not only enables us to protect the savings we have made to date, but enables us to make more and safeguard services.”

WDBC deputy leader Cllr Lois Samuel added: “It is really important to us that we get a fair and accurate representation from across both areas and so we have also commissioned a telephone survey. Some of the residents in South Hams and West Devon may be contacted to answer the consultation questions over the phone.

“We will be putting out updates on social media and through a dedicated newsletter, the best way to keep up-to-date with the consultation dates and events is to sign up and follow us.”

The councils also say they will send letters to their partners and MP’s and hold briefing sessions with towns and parish councils as well as making contact with the business community.

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