RESIDENTS are being invited to have their say on proposed new council ward boundaries for Cheshire West and Chester Council.

The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England is asking people for their help to draw up a new pattern of council wards for the council.

The consultation is the first part of an electoral review which will re-draw ward boundaries across the council area.

The Commission has also announced it is minded to recommend the council should have 69 councillors in the future - six fewer than currently.

The Commission now needs information from people and groups across Cheshire West and Chester to help it to produce a new pattern of wards to accommodate 69 councillors.

In drawing up new boundaries, the Commission aims to deliver electoral equality for voters in council elections so each councillor represents roughly the same number of voters.

The review also aims to ensure the new council wards reflect, as far as possible, the interests and identities of communities across Cheshire West and Chester.

Professor Colin Mellors, chairman of the Commission, said: “We are asking people and organisations to help us draw up new wards for Cheshire West and Chester.

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

“If you have a view about which communities or neighbourhoods should be part of the same council ward, we want to hear from you.

“If you think a road, river or railway makes for a strong boundary between communities in your part of Cheshire West and Chester, this consultation is for you.

“Alternatively, if you’re simply interested in the way the council is run, log on to our website to explore our interactive maps and have your say. Your views will make a difference.

“We will carefully consider all evidence provided during this phase of the review. Residents will then have a further chance to have their say after we publish our draft recommendations in September.”

People have until June 5 to submit their views. Further information can be found at consultation.lgbce.org.uk and lgbce.org.uk.