VIEWS are being sought on plans for a new political map for Solihull Council as a new pattern of wards is being developed.
The Local Government Boundary Commission has decided that the number of councillors in Solihull should be 51 – the same as now.
However, the independent body is looking to re-draw the boundary lines so councillors represent ‘about the same number of electors, and that ward arrangements help the council work effectively’.
The Commission said it wants to be sure that its proposals reflect community ties and identities.
A ten-week long consultation has been launched asking residents on which communities should be part of the same ward what issues do neighbouring communities face, are there any features that people believe form strong boundaries and what facilities areas share.
The Commission says it will use local views to help it draw up proposals for new ward boundaries.
There will be a further round of consultation once the Commission has drawn up those proposals.
Launching the consultation Professor Colin Mellors, Chair of the Commission, said: “We are starting to draw up new wards for Solihull.
“We want our proposals for new electoral arrangements to reflect communities. We also want them to be easy to understand and convenient for local people.
“Residents and local organisations can help us understand community ties and identities at this early stage of the process.”
The consultation runs until October 30.
Councillor Ian Courts, leader of Solihull Council said: “I’d like to encourage all Solihull residents to give their views in the Local Government Boundary Commission consultation.
“It’s important that they hear from as many people as possible so that they have an accurate picture of the borough from which to draw their conclusions.
“I’m pleased that they have agreed with the Council in concluding that we should maintain the number of Councillors at 51, and look forward to seeing the proposals they put forward as a result of this consultation.”
To have your say click here email [email protected] or write to The Review Officer (Solihull), LGBCE, PO Box 133, Blyth, NE24 9FE
