BROMSGROVE residents are being encouraged to take part in a consultation on plans to redraw the town’s electoral map.

The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England is asking people to comment on its draft proposals for new district council wards, ward boundaries and ward names.

An eight week public consultation is underway and closes on January 7.

The commission has recommended there should be 32 councillors, seven fewer than the current arrangements.

The proposals also include a move to a one-member-one-ward system.

Max Caller, chairman of the commission, said: “We are keen to hear what local people think of the recommendations.

“Over the next eight weeks, we are asking local people to tell us if they agree with the proposals or if not, how they can be improved.

“Our review aims to deliver electoral equality for Bromsgrove’s voters.

“This means that each councillor represents a similar number of people so that everyone’s vote in local elections is worth roughly the same regardless of where you live.

“We have an open mind about suggestions to change and improve these recommendations.”

The full recommendations and interactive maps are available at consultation.lgbce.org.uk or on the commission’s website, lgbce.org.uk.

Hard copies of the commission’s report and maps are also available to view at council buildings and libraries.

Anyone who wishes to make comments or suggestions is asked to write to the commission. The address is The Review Officer (Bromsgrove), Local Government Boundary Commission for England, Layden House, 76-86 Turnmill Street, London, EC1M 5LG.

Alternatively, email reviews@lgbce.org.uk, or contact the commission through its webpage, consultation.lgbce.org.uk.