Two weeks left to comment on boundary change proposals

The Boundary Commission for England is making a last appeal for contributions from anyone interested in commenting on its initial proposals for a new constituency map for England.

The proposals could see Rochdale undergo radical changes. The plans show that Rochdale could be split into two seats, namely Rochdale North and Rawtenstall and Rochdale South.

This will be the first time since records began that Rochdale would not have its own MP.

The seat for Heywood and Middleton could also see changes, with a lone Middleton seat created.

The wards incorporated into the proposed seats are listed below:

• Rochdale North and Rawtenstall: Rawtenstall, Bacup and Whitworth with the Rochdale Borough wards of Norden, Healey, Spotland, Central, Smallbridge and Firgrove, Wardle and West Littleborough and Littleborough.
   
• Rochdale South: The Rochdale Borough wards of Heywood North, Bamford, Castleton, Balderstone and Kirkholt, Milkstone and Deeplish, Kingsway and Milnrow and Newhey, with the Oldham Borough wards of Shaw, Crompton and Royton North.
• Middleton: the Rochdale Borough wards of Middleton North, South, East and West, Hopwood Hall, Heywood West, the Chadderton wards from Oldham Borough and the Charlestown ward from Manchester. 

The review of constituency boundaries is being carried out after Parliament decided that there should be a reduction in the number of constituencies across the UK, and that there should be similar numbers of electors in each constituency. The number of constituencies in England is being reduced from 533 to 502.

Under the BCE's initial proposals 77 of the existing constituencies are unchanged.

Simon James, Secretary to the Commission, said: "Over the last few weeks we have travelled extensively across England to listen to the views of local people.

“The Commission has been able to gain a real insight into what people think thanks to the contributions from over 1,000 speakers at the public hearings.

“Although the hearings have come to an end, the consultation period is still open and we are still keen for people to write to us, and let us know whether they accept the proposals or what their alternative suggestions are".

The deadline is 5 December. All details about the consultation are available at: www.consultation.boundarycommissionforengland.independent.gov.uk