CLUBS in the Bolton League will be asked to vote on a landmark proposal later this month that will see them effectively relinquish direct control over how the league is run.

At present, all 14 clubs have a presence on the league’s management committee, but under proposals put forward by league chairman Mike Hall, that will be cut down to include representatives from just four clubs.

The new management structure would also include four league officials – with all eight members elected at the league’s annual general meeting.

The plan will be voted on at the next league meeting and, if successful, will be put to the annual meeting in December.

“This idea is not something new or radical – many of the premier leagues in the country have adopted this kind of model,” said Hall.

“We have a rule book and a constitution and, if the new structure is accepted, then the committee would have the power to make decisions about the day-to-day running of the league within that framework.”

Key changes to the league’s constitution would still have to be voted on at the annual meeting, but Hall believes the new structure would allow for more independent, freer thinking on how best to evolve the league in the future.

The chairman admits the planned expansion of the Bolton Association, and imminent changes to other leagues in the county, is behind the proposal.

It follows a summer of consultation, including forums with players and officials from each club, to seek views on the future of the Bolton League.

“Every club is in a different cycle, with some enjoying a lot of success and others not, which obviously affects how clubs view changes and ideas,” he added.

“We need to create a structure in which those issues are put to one side and that allows us to ensure the sustainability of every club in the league over the next 15 to 20 years.”