Public gets say on plan for fewer councillors

The Local Government Boundary Commission for England has launched public consultations on draft proposals to draw up new boundaries for Sheffield and Doncaster.

Recommendations in the review state that Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council should have 54 councillors in the future, nine fewer than in its current form.

Meanwhile in Sheffield the independent body recommends the current number of 84 councillors should stay the same, but is keen to develop a new pattern of wards to improve equality.

It is hoped the changes to boundaries will ensure each councillor represents roughly the same number of voters.

Commission chairman Max Caller said: “The starting point of an electoral review is for the commission to take a view on the number of councillors who should represent the authorities in the future.

“We are now asking local people and organisations to help us draw up new wards for Sheffield and Doncaster.

“As we develop the recommendations, we will take into account local community identities as well as ensuring electoral equality for voters.

“Views will make a difference. We will carefully consider all evidence that is provided during this phase of the review whoever it is from and whether it applies to the whole of Sheffield or Doncaster, or just a small part.”

Submissions will be posted on the commission’s website ahead of the publication of the final recommendations in October.