DETAILS of how Darlington's elected mayor referendum will be conducted have been finalised.

At Thursday's full council meeting, councillors approved proposals for powers the proposed elected mayor would have, as well as how the referendum, on September 27, will be carried out.

Arrangements for the scrutiny committees under the proposed system were outlined.

If residents vote in favour of an elected mayor, the system adopted will take the mayor and cabinet form, which will have similar powers to those enjoyed by the existing leader and cabinet.

Key decisions, as well as decisions on budget, constitution, policy, bylaws, councillors' allowances, borrowing or spending, and appointments of committees and the chief executive, remain with full council.

Five overview and scrutiny committees are included in the proposed system.

It was also decided that the referendum will be carried out through the traditional ballot box method, as an all-postal vote has been outlawed for local elections by the Government.

It is suggested that, if the system is approved, another person carries out the ceremonial mayor duties and chairs the full council.

The proposals will be now be sent to the Secretary of State.

At Thursday's meeting, council leader John Williams said: "Tonight is not about arguing the rights or morals about whether we have an elected mayor or not. That debate will take place in the coming weeks.

"I only hope we have a high turnout in this referendum because I think that will give whatever decision is taken a better legitimacy."