LOCAL government across Dorset underwent a major overhaul on Monday as the two new unitary authorities were established – replacing the existing nine first and second tier councils.

While this was happening a slightly smaller change took place as new town and parish councils were formed in Christchurch.

Christchurch Town Council and Highcliffe and Walkford Neighbourhood Council both came into existence on Monday.

Following the decision of the former Christchurch Borough Council not to pursue an appeal against the rejection of its legal challenge over being forced – unwillingly – to merge with Bournemouth and Poole councils.

Their work will include being a consultee on planning applications in their areas and managing some public spaces.

Christchurch Town Council will also take over responsibility for some of the traditional aspects of the former borough council, including the position of the mayor.

Funding will come from a new precept charged on council tax bills for people living in the two areas.

From this month, people living in the Christchurch town area will pay an extra £9.69 a year and in Highcliffe and Walkford a £9.89 annual fee will be levied.

This is planned to rise to more than £27 in each area next year.

The town council’s first clerk is the former planning lawyer for Christchurch and East Dorset Councils, Daniel Lucas.

He said: “I am really looking forward to this new challenge.

“Christchurch is a wonderful town steeped in history and heritage and I am very proud to have been appointed to this position.

“I’m looking forward to supporting the ambitions of the new town council which will provide a strong voice for Christchurch residents.”

Prior to his last role, Mr Lucas worked for Eastleigh, Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Havant and Waverley councils and was an ombudsman for the Financial Ombudsman Service.

The first elections for the new councils will take place on May 2 – the same date as those for the new unitary authorities.