THERE could be fewer councillors representing Taunton Deane under proposals which people are being asked to have their say on. 

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

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

The commission has said that it is likely to recommend that the authority should have 43 borough councillors in the future - 13 fewer than currently. 

Residents and groups across the deane are being asked to have their say to help produce a new pattern of wards to accomodate 43 councillors. 

In drawing up new boundaries, the commission said it aims to deliver electoral equality for voters in council 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 Taunton Deane.

Professor Colin Mellors, chair of the Commission, said: “We are asking people and organisations to help us draw up new wards for Taunton Deane.

"As we develop the recommendations, we will take into account local 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, then we want to hear from you.

"And if you think a road, river or railway makes for a strong boundary between communities in your part of Taunton Deane, then this consultation is for you.

"Alternatively, if you’re simply interested in the way the borough is run, just 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 that is provided during this phase of the review whoever it is from and whether it applies to the whole of Taunton Deane or just a small part of the borough.

“Residents will then have a further chance to have their say after we publish our draft recommendations in November.”

  • You have until September 5 to submit your reviews. Further information on the review and interactive maps of the existing wards can be found by clicking here