A senior management restructure which will save Dudley Council £1.2 million in wages has been approved by council chiefs.

The move - which will see the number of senior officers on the authority almost halve from 61 to 32 - was approved by the authority’s ruling cabinet on Wednesday night.

A formal consultation will now start in the New Year ahead of a vote by full council.

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of the council, said: “The council is facing significant financial challenges, alongside increased service demands. “Doing nothing is not an option if we are to balance the books.

“The new operating model will allow us to work in a more streamlined and efficient way.

“At the same time it will ensure key frontline services for the most vulnerable in our borough continue to be delivered.”