Some 66% Dutch voters support the principle of an elected mayor, local government magazine Binnenlands Bestuur says on Wednesday.

However, the poll, involving 9,500 people, showed support is divided about how mayors should be chosen – via a direct vote or by the city council.

Mayors in the Netherlands are currently appointed by the crown on the advice of a council’s executive board.

Some 44% of those polled would like to vote for a mayor directly, Binnenlands Bestuur says.

Last weekend the Christian Democrats came out in favour of elected mayors. This means there is now two-thirds support for a change in parliament – which could clear the way for change.