TWO councils will share a chief executive, after the job-share plan was approved.

Residents have been assured it will be business as usual at Wychavon District Council and Malvern Hills District Council, after Jack Hegarty's appointment as chief executive of both authorities was backed by MHDC last night (October 16).

Members of MHDC voted 20-11 with two abstentions in favour of appointing Mr Hegarty, the current chief executive at Wychavon.

During the debate, one former member of the council's Tory group, which was backing the merger, denounced the idea as "repugnant".

The scheme's backers say it will save around £60,000 a year for each council.

But opponents fear it will lead to the merger of the two councils and the loss of sovereignty for Malvern Hills.

They pointed out the business case for the merged post also includes proposals for merging rubbish collection services, strategic planning, customer services and other functions.

Cllr Clive Smith said he feared the proposals will mean the reduction of MHDC to a "husk".

He said: "Members of the public deserve a council that is more then a brass plaque on the wall. What we're being asked to vote on tonight is nothing less than an act of betrayal."

Cllr Anthony Warburton said: "The merger of this council with Wychavon, which will follow these proposals as night follows day, results in an enlarged council which would be the subject of Conservative control for the foreseeable future.

"It is directly repugnant to the basic principles of democracy and no right thinking member of this council should support it.

"I supported the Conservative Party for over 50years.

"The behaviour of this group makes me ashamed that I ever did so."

The appointment will lead to a £60,000 saving annually for Wychavon and will see Mr Hegarty starting in the role around December 1.

Mr Hegarty has 29 years of local government experience and led Wychavon to a number of achievements in the past 10 years, including LGC Council of the Year, Best Council, Best Leader and secured high satisfaction ratings for services and staff.

The decision will mean the post holder at Malvern Hills, Chris Bocock, will be made redundant and leave his post on December 1.

MHDC leader Cllr David Hughes said: "I am delighted to welcome our newly appointed shared CEO to Malvern and look forward to Jack taking up his post and delivering on the efficiencies and cost savings for our residents.

“I would also like to thank Chris Bocock for his exceptional dedication and service over the years."

Mr Hegarty said: “I’m really looking forward to this new challenge.

“Maintaining the individuality of both councils is a high priority for me and I’m acutely aware that this is important at both MHDC and Wychavon.

“There will of course be shared opportunities in the future, as there have been in the past, but ensuring local identity is maintained is key.

“There will also be opportunities for improved resilience and cost savings to be enjoyed by both councils.”