COUNTY councillors have backed plans for a major reform of the way adult education and youth work is delivered.

The council's executive voted unanimously in favour of the proposals, which aim to cut spending on management and administration, and put more money into delivering front line services.

The plans have caused controversy, with some councillors saying the changes will dilute the focus on community education in rural areas and reduce opportunities for working mothers.

Until now, schools in North Yorkshire have been able to make local decisions, with 29 community education district managers.

Under the new system, adult education and youth work will be separated.

A principal adult education officer will be responsible for two further education officers. Seven area teams will be set up, each consisting of a learning co-ordinator responsible for a number of administrative and delivery staff.

Youth work will have 11 team leaders and seven clerical posts.

The changes are in response to guidance from the Learning and Skills Council and the Department for Education and Skills.

The county council has been consulting with head teachers on the proposals for the past year.

Speaking at the executive's meeting earlier this week, the county's young people's champion, Councillor Tony Hall urged his colleagues to move forward with the plans.

"There is low morale in the staff," he said. "Make the decision and get on with it."

The executive approved the plans, but voted to have a report on the effectiveness of the new system in six months time, and a full review in a year.