Have your say on new council ward boundaries for Hertsmere

The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England is asking Bushey residents for their help to draw up a new pattern of council wards for Hertsmere Borough Council (HBC). The consultation is the first part of an electoral review which will re-draw ward boundaries across the borough. The Commission has also announced that the council should have 39 borough councillors in the future: the same as the current arrangements. The Commission now needs information from people and groups across Hertsmere to help it produce a new pattern of wards to accommodate the 39 borough councillors. In drawing up new boundaries, the Commission aims to deliver electoral equality for voters in elections so that each councillor represents roughly the same number of voters. The review also aims to ensure that the new council wards reflect, as far as possible, the interests and identities of communities across Hertsmere. Councillor Morris Bright, leader of HBC and Portfolio Holder for Communications and Consultation, said: “The aim is to ensure that our ward boundaries accurately reflect our communities. So, if you feel more affiliated with a certain ward or there is a physical barrier, such as a main road, river or railway line, cutting through the ward you are currently in, then now is the time to have your say.” Local people have until March 20 to submit their views. Further information can be found at consultation.lgbce.org.uk and www.lgbce.org.uk For more stories from your community pick up the February edition of BusheyNews on January 27.