Dorset councils share chief executive to save cash

Two Dorset councils have agreed to share a chief executive in an effort to save about 拢400,000 a year.

Christchurch Borough Council and East Dorset District Council said the move would save each council 拢50,000 a year.

The new post will be filled by one of the two serving chief executives, Michael Turvey at Christchurch and David McIntosh at East Dorset.

A joint management team will also save the two councils about 拢300,000 a year as part of a package of savings.

Christchurch council leader Alan Griffiths said: "The ongoing economic downturn has had a far-reaching impact on the public sector.

"We already have a good track record of working together and this has created mutual respect and trust."