A potential tri-council partnership in Dorset has become more likely, with another town hall committing to measures that could save £6m every year.

Councillors from both North Dorset District and West Dorset District Council have now approved a three-way partnership with Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, with the final town due to debate the plans later this week.

Proposals would see a single work force serving all three town halls, with office buildings and ICT systems also being streamlined.

However each local authority would continue to hold power over its own budget and council tax while retaining councillors.

Government funding for all three town halls has been more than halved in the five years up to 2015/16 and further reductions are expected.

Cllr Deborah Croney, Leader of North Dorset District Council, said: ‘Today we made a landmark decision that will protect and improve services for the future providing an unlimited number of opportunities that will be of great benefit to residents.’