WHITELEY is a step closer to having its own parish council after the government backed the move.

Councillors and residents have been campaigning for the new community to have its own forum since the start of the year.

Currently Whiteley is split between the authorities of Fareham and Winchester with local representatives from the Winchester side sitting on the nearest parish council at Wickham.

But Whiteley's bid for independence took a massive step forward when Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott said he agreed in principle to the proposal submitted by Winchester City Council.

It means that local elections for the new council could take place by May 2003.

Mr Prescott's office will now consult with other local authorities and interested bodies before giving final approval.

Winchester city councillor and Whiteley resident Patrick Wright said: "It is a big step forward and something that we all support. Having our own parish council will give a local voice for local people."

Winchester City Council leader Sheila Campbell added: "We already have two very active city councillors representing our residents' views but a parish council is a necessary part of local representation."