RESIDENTS are being asked to have their say on draft proposals for new council ward boundaries in Middlesbrough.

The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England has launched a twelve-week public consultation on the recommendations so residents can have an input into the decision.

The commission’s draft recommendations propose that Middlesbrough Council should have 46 councillors in the future, two fewer than the current arrangements. The recommendations also outline how those councillors should represent two single-member, ten two-member and eight three-member wards across Middlesbrough.

Max Caller, chairman of the commission, said: “We are publishing proposals for a new pattern of wards across Middlesbrough and we are keen to hear what local people think of the recommendations.

“Over the next twelve weeks, we are asking local people to tell us if they agree with the proposals or if not, how they can be improved.

“Our review aims to deliver electoral equality for local voters. This means that each councillor represents a similar number of people so that everyone’s vote in council elections is worth roughly the same regardless of where you live.

“We also want to ensure that our proposals reflect the interests and identities of local communities across Middlesbrough and that the pattern of wards can help the council deliver effective local government to local people."

The full recommendations and detailed interactive maps are available on the commission’s website at consultation.lgbce.org.uk and www.lgbce.org.uk. Hard copies of the commission’s report and maps will also be available to view at council buildings and libraries.