CAMPAIGNERS for a new town council have vowed to continue their fight, despite the prospect of their plans being delayed for at least a year.

Durham County Council looks set to postpone any possible moves to create a town council for Durham until after a review of electoral boundaries is completed.

But campaign leader Sue Pitts said: "There are lots of people who want this council - who are very keen on this - and they will continue to be so."

The campaign for Durham to have a town council was launched after it became clear Durham City Council would be replaced by the new unitary Durham County Council - a shake-up which came into effect on April 1.

Mrs Pitts, a former Liberal Democrat leader of the city council, and other Lib Dems are backing the plan.

Labour figures have criticised the campaign, calling a city council-run consultation a waste of money. An alternative set-up involving a number of smaller parish councils has been proposed.

A town council could cover Durham city centre and Newton Hall. The power to establish the authority lies with Durham County Council.

Papers released ahead of a meeting of the council planned for next week reveal officers are recommending cabinet reiterate its support for the authority.

However, proposals would not be considered further until after Durham County Council completes an Electoral Boundary Review.

In the meantime, it is suggested, people should have a further chance to have their say on the plans.

Mrs Pitts said: "Durham City has been a city for nigh on a thousand years.

"We don’t mind waiting if we get a town council, but to divide Durham up would fly in the face of our cherished history."

Durham County Council’s cabinet will meet held in Durham Town Hall on Wednesday, April 15.