Tynwald will decide whether to approve the merger between Arbory and Rushen Commissioners next week.

The two southern authorities agreed to join forces last year, but still need the backing of lawmakers for the union to go ahead.

Commissioners argue the amalgamation will lead to the efficient delivery of services for ratepayers.

Former MHK Phil Gawne is the clerk for both authorities already.

If approved, it will lead to the creation of Arbory and Rushen Parish District, a single authority made up of six representatives, three from each parish.

The new body will take shape after the local authority general elections in April, in which three seats, rather than the current five seats, will be up for grabs in Arbory and Rushen.

The main settlements in the new authority’s area include Colby, Ballabeg, Cregneash and Surby.

The 2011 census counted 1,747 people in Arbory and 1,537 in Rushen.

Both authorities will set their rates at the end of this month, with the understanding that both will set the same figure to ensure a smooth transition into the new entity.

The Department of Infrastructure is understood to support the merger, as part of a policy to encourage more authorities to collaborate to reduce costs where possible.

In 2015 the authorities in Laxey, Lonan and Maughold merged to form Garff Commissioners.