Broxbourne DC has placed its chief executive, Mike Walker, on 'special leave' as it decides whether to abolish the role or merge it with another position in a quest to save money.

The council's director of community services, Jeff Stack, has agreed to act as head of paid service during the interim period. A statement issued by the council said: 'The council is considering changing its management structure to make a saving in future revenue expenditure by deleting or amalgamating the post of Chief Executive Officer. In order for this to happen efficiently Mike Walker has been granted special leave.'