Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Yet another reorganisation of how we vote.
The following is the gist of a WCC press release.

'The review, to be conducted by the Boundary Committee for England, offically started on 26th February following the approval of the Structural Order to create the new unitary authority by both Houses of Parliament.

The boundary review will involve drawing up new electoral divisions, of approximately 3,700 voters each, for the new unitary council. A proposal for the new electoral divisions is currently being prepared by Wiltshire County Council, in consultation with district, town, and parish councils.

The Boundary Committee will also welcome proposals from other interested parties such as individuals, political parties, or parish and town councils by 21st April 2008. The county council is hoping to gain some consensus on its proposal before submitting it to the Boundary Committee by working closely with local stakeholders.

The main aim of an electoral review is to try to ensure 'electoral equality', which means that all councillors in a single authority represent approximately the same number of electors so that each vote cast carries the same weight. The Boundary Committee will make recommendations to the Electoral Commission which aim to achieve electoral equality, while at the same time trying to reflect communities in the area and provide for convenient and effective local government.

The final decision by the Electoral Commission will hopefully be made later in the year in time for the elections to the unitary council in May 2009.'