RESIDENTS could help shape a new style of political leadership for Bury.

They are being asked for their views against the backdrop of a new law which means that all councils have to look at the way they govern.

Bury, as a metropolitan council, must choose one of two options — either a directly elected mayor or a new-style “strong leader” and cabinet model.

Currently, the leader of Bury Council is chosen annually by all 51 councillors who also approve his or her choice of cabinet members.

Under the “strong leader” model, the local authority would elect a leader for a period of four years. The leader would then select his or her own members of cabinet and decide how much power to delegate to them.

The alternative is to have a directly elected mayor and cabinet. The mayor would be directly elected by voters and be in power for four years. The mayor would not have to be a councillor, or enjoy councillors’ support.

In Bury, however, the council carried out a referendum only last year for a directly elected mayor, following receipt of a petition, and the voters of Bury rejected this idea.

The council has to make a decision by the end of 2009, with the new arrangements starting next May.

Residents are being asked for their views and these must arrive by November 12. Details can be viewed online at bury.gov.uk and comments can also be sent to David Hanson, head of democratic services, Bury Town Hall, Knowsley Street, Bury or emailed to d.hanson@bury.gov.uk