A PLAN to make Tid-worth an official town rather than a village is set to take another step forward shortly with the publication of Kenn-et District Councils proposals for the redrawing of the community wards.

Tidworth, which was historically split between Ham-pshire and Wiltshire, is still made up of two parishes which have met as a single parish council since 1992.

Kennet's plans will see the creation of a single Tidworth parish which will then be able to pass a resolution declaring itself a town in its own right.

Tidworth does have a population of around 10,000 when all military units are at base and is the twelfth largest community in the county.

Kennet District Council's elections officer, Jonathan Gale, said: "We need to stage a fresh public consultation exercise because the proposals we are putting forward differ from those put forward by Tidworth Parish Council.

"The new proposal sees a reduction in the number of councillors from 22 to 19, which will bring Tidworth more in line with Devizes and Marlborough, and the creation of a new Perham Down Ward."

Under Kennet's proposals the north ward will have 14 councillors, south ward three members and Perham Down two members.

Those who would like to comment on the plans have until 28 February to make their views known to Kennet District Council.

If the idea is accepted by the Department of Transport, Local Government and the Regions then the new regime should be in place by spring 2003.

And Tidworth will then, officially, be able to call itself a town.

As well as reflecting the size of the community, town status, it is argued, will increase civic pride, enhance economic opportunities and reflect the aspiration of the community.

Some community leaders feel it will give them extra clout when dealing with outside bodies.