THE case for a massive "super council" covering the whole of North Yorkshire has been put by two of the county's most senior political figures.

North Yorkshire County Council leader John Weighell, backed by chief executive Jeremy Walker, said yesterday that a county-wide unitary authority would be the cheapest option, keeping down administration costs.

Coun Weighell said: "One council would keep North Yorkshire together, while delivering efficient, high-quality and very local services."

He said: "As well as being the lowest cost option and giving the county the most clout on the regional and national stage, it would also reinforce the precious identity and heritage of North Yorkshire."

But North Yorkshire's district councils have claimed public support in their fight for their survival in the face of local government change.

One of the current layers of local government in North Yorkshire - either the county council or the seven districts - will be abolished if plans go ahead for a Yorkshire regional assembly.

The districts have proposed creating three unitary councils by merging Ryedale and Scarborough, Hambleton and Richmondshire, and Harrogate and Craven.

A consultation process carried out by the districts saw more than 68 per cent back the three-council unitary system. Only 13 per cent said they would be happy with a single unitary council.

Arthur Barker, Hambleton District Council leader, said: "We know that having one single council for the whole of North Yorkshire is unworkable.

"It would be too remote from our villages, dales and seaside resorts."

Debate is currently raging over Selby's future in any local government shake-up. The area looks likely to be added to East Riding of Yorkshire council, but there is a growing campaign to merge it with York.

Public views on local government change must reach the Boundary Committee by 5pm on Monday.

Updated: 09:28 Saturday, February 21, 2004