A TIMETABLE has been set for the process that will decide whether Darlington has an elected mayor.

A referendum will be held this year and if the electorate votes to change the council's political system, a mayoral election will be held in May next year.

The process was started after residents, angry with recent controversial policies, collected a petition of nearly 4,700 signatures.

Before the referendum can take place, Darlington residents will be consulted on what kind of elected mayor they want.

The options are:

* An elected mayor with a cabinet appointed by him or her

* An elected mayor with a council manager - an unelected officer appointed by the council to make decisions and delegate powers.

There will also be consultation on how the council might operate under a mayor, including the role or title of the ceremonial mayor.

Following the consultation on July 19, a decision will be made by the full council on what form of mayoral arrangement will be put to the referendum.

The proposals will be submitted to the Secretary of State.

Residents will be made aware about options and the current system.

The referendum will be held on September 27.

Although they would need a new title, under new arrangements there would still be a ceremonial mayor.

If there is a yes vote, an election would be held.

In his report to councillors, director of corporate services Paul Wildsmith said: "Officers recommend that the ceremonial mayor should continue to have the same duties and the ceremonial mayor should have social precedence."

Referendum campaigner Harvey Smith said: "I'll be looking at the proposals offered by the council and considering the options.

"We've achieved what we set out to do and it's now up to the people of Darlington."

The full council is expected to agree the consultation programme at a meeting on Friday at 4pm. It is also asked to approve a budget of £170,000 for the consultation process and ballot.