I WISH to support the concept of Ken Lavery’s letter, headed “Purge councillors” (HAS, July 24), in which he suggested reducing the number of Darlington borough councillors on cost-saving grounds.

Indeed, I suggest the whole concept of councillors is now outdated, particularly as the Durham County Council unitary authority has ceased to be a local authority in the original meaning of the word.

Having worked for local authorities for most of my working life, I think many councillors do not have the experience or qualifications to have any meaningful input to the complexities local authorities are now faced with.

Many, particularly those representing political parties, vote according to party decree – which is decided at group meetings prior to a full council meeting, making a mockery of the outcome of any debate that ensues.

Party politics in local matters inhibits good decision-making. I suggest in its place a much smaller board of directors be elected as full-time officials, representing no political party.

Such members should have suitable qualifications and experience which would make them ably qualified to question chief officers prior to giving support to the numerous issues which councils are faced with.

As I understand it, there are about 125 Durham county councillors –significantly more than the number of MPs the county has in Parliament.

Derek Pattison, Frosterley, Co Durham.