A Council has agreed to a shake-up which it says will strengthen democracy.

Durham City Council was one of the first authorities to pilot the cabinet system as part of the Government's drive to modernise local government.

The Labour-run council is consulting residents on whether to make the cabinet system permanent, or go with another model of leadership, such as a directly-elected mayor.

Unlike some authorities, cabinet meetings are open to the public, but so far, only Labour councillors are members of the cabinet.

Now, two of the nine places will be offered to opposition members, one to the Liberal Democrats and one to the Independents. The council has also scrapped a series of decision-making committees, including economic development, environment and community services.

Their workload will be transferred to the cabinet, where Labour members will have portfolios for particular subjects.

Councillor Mick Bennett, Labour group spokesman, said the democratic process was being further strengthened by the committees, which could examine broad policy issues.

"They may review past decisions, suggest changes to policies and procedures, and submit reports and recommend- ations to assist the cabinet in making a decision.

"Members have the opportunity to carry out an in-depth study of the performance indicators of the council, compared to other neighbouring or similar councils, to strive for best value provision of its services."