Agenda item

The Democratic Services Specialist presented her report which provided an overview of the outcome of a Local Government Boundary Review (LGBR) of South Somerset. Several new wards had been created and there had been changes to boundaries of some of the existing wards.

A new three member ward had been created for Northstone / Ivelchester / St Michael’s which had created a challenge as it crossed the SSDC administrative boundaries of Areas North and East. She explained that there was a need for the entire ward to be within one Area Committee for the purposes of Area Committee working. It was therefore suggested that the new ward be within Area East. This would make Area East a 13 member committee, and Area North a 12 member committee. The same report had been to Area East Committee who had supported the proposal.

Members expressed their frustration that the final proposals of the LGBR had not been consulted upon more prior to the Order being made. Other views raised included:

·         The idea put forward by the Local Government Boundary Commission for this new ward was ridiculous.

·         Unable to split a ward.

·         Some good communication to explain the changes would be required for the parishes affected.

·         The change has created a huge ward.

·         People would still have members representing them, but they may have to travel further to attend a committee meeting.

At the end of discussion, members reluctantly agreed to the new ward being wholly within Area East.

(Voting: 9 in favour, 1 against, 1 abstention)