A REVIEW has begun which could eventually lead to the political map of North Yorkshire being redrawn.

The study will take an in-depth look at the electoral arrangements affecting the county council, and is being carried out by the Boundary Committee for England.

It aims to make sure, where possible, that every county councillor represents the same number of electors and will also take into account the identities and interests of local communities in the area.

Such reviews have to be carried out periodically because the number and distribution of electors changes over time. North Yorkshire was last reviewed in 1984.

The committee can recommend changes to the number of councillors and the number and boundaries of divisions, including the creation of new divisions, and the names of divisions.

It can also, if necessary, recommend changes to the electoral arrangements of parish and town councils, where they exist.

However, it cannot consider changes to external boundaries of a county, district or parish, or create new parishes - although changes to parish boundaries can be considered by the relevant district.

Those interested are now being invited to submit their own proposals for changes to electoral arrangements.

The committee expects to publish draft recommendations for consultation in early 2003.

Following public consultation on those, final recommendations on changes to electoral arrangements are expected in about a year's time.

Anyone with proposals should write, by no later than August 19, to The Team Leader (North Yorkshire), Boundary Committee for England, Trevelyan House, Great Peter Street, London SW1P 2HW