Gore's deputy mayor has stepped down to bring unity back into council.

Stewart MacDonell has resigned from his role following a request signed by seven other councillors.

They say the decision came after attempts to work collaboratively to provide the best governance structure for the community.

Mayor Ben Bell told Heather Du Plessis-Allan he was disappointed the challenge happened so quickly.

He says a bit of slack could've been given, as Stewart had only just got the role.

LISTEN ABOVE