The Electoral Reform Society estimates that some 8,962 Monmouthshire residents will be denied the vote in this year's council elections next week, as six councillors have already been elected unopposed.

Across Wales, 95 councillors will be elected unopposed, meaning local residents will not be able to express an opinion on the future of key services and council tax levels.

Not long ago, parts of rural Scotland featured similar 'democracy deserts'.

However in 2007, Scotland switched to proportional representation for local elections, using a system known as the Single Transferable Vote (STV).

Under STV, Scottish voters are able to express a number of preferences for who they want to represent them locally.

The change has reinvigorated Scottish local democracy and none of the Scottish council seats due for election this year are uncontested.

Stephen Brooks, Director of Electoral Reform Society Wales, said, "Uncontested seats are a symptom of the lack of real competition in our local democracy.

"Nearly 9,000 Monmouthshire voters will be denied a choice over who makes decisions on their behalf across a range of important issues like council tax, social services, and schools.

"The Welsh Government needs to breathe new life into local democracy, and adopt Scotland's fair voting system.

"In Scotland, voters have more choice and a greater say in the decisions that affect them. It's only right that Monmouthshire taxpayers have the same rights".