County bosses have voted to cut the number of sides promoted and relegated in the Championship from three to two. The last-ever meeting of the First Class Forum approved the measure - to begin in the 2006 season - by the required two-thirds majority on Monday.
There will also be a two-up, two-down system in the 40-over Totesport League.
And there will be a play-off for the final promotion/relegation spot between the teams who are third in the Second Division and seventh in the First.
Kent promoted the argument for the two-up, two-down system, believing it will encourage more positive play.
Last season, all but the two top teams in Division One could have been relegated going into the final month.
The County Championship has been divided into two divisions, with nine teams in each, since 2000.
The First Class Forum, which includes representatives of the 18 counties plus the MCC, is set to cede power to a streamlined England and Wales Cricket Board committee later this year.
MMIX
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