RESIDENTS will receive a survey and information pack to help them decide on the future of a town council.

More than 20,000 residents served by Swanley Town Council will be sent the survey this week to decide whether Hextable should break away from the town and create its own parish council.

The controversial split was proposed by Hextable Residents' Association in May last year and would allow the area's residents to take control of the parish council's finances.

The questionnaire is part of a formal consultation period, ending on February 17, being independently carried out by the Electoral Reform Service.

Results will be reported to Sevenoaks council within four months.

They will be used to decide whether or not a split should be recommended to the Office of The Deputy Prime Minister, which has the final say.

If a split is agreed it could take place in February next year.