Time running out to have say over new political map for Walsall Council
Time is running out for people to have their say over plans to redraw the political map in Walsall.
Residents and local organisations have been invited to share their views on the plans, which propose a new pattern of wards for Walsall Council.
The Local Government Boundary Commission has decided that the number of councillors in the town should stay at 60.
It is reviewing Walsall to ensure councillors will represent the same number of electors, and that ward arrangements will help the local authority to "work effectively".
The commission has called upon residents to have their say on the proposed plans as part of a 10-week consultation, which will draw to an end on October 30.
It is particularly interested in hearing what facilities people share, such as parks and leisure centres, what issues neighbouring communities face and if new housing or commercial developments have changed the focus of communities.
It has also invited people to have their say if they believe there are roads, rivers, railways or other features that they believe form strong boundaries between neighbourhoods in the town.
Launching the consultation, Professor Colin Mellors, chair of the commission, said: "We want people in Walsall to help us. We are starting to draw up new wards for Walsall.
"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.
"It is easy to get involved. Go to our website. Or you can e-mail or write to us. Just tell us what you think and give us some details why you think that – It is really simple, so do get involved."
People can have their say by visiting lgbce.org.uk/all-reviews/walsall or by emailing reviews@lgbce.org.uk
