BOUNDARY COMMISSION PROPOSALS FOR SOUTH BRENT
The Local Government Boundary Commission for England has published draft proposals for the reorganisation of wards within the South Hams District Council area. Under these the number of councillors on SHDC would be reduced from 40 to 31, and Brent would no longer be represented by a single councillor, but merged into one new ward with six other parishes – Dean Prior, Holne, West Buckfastleigh, Rattery, Diptford and North Huish. This ward would be represented by two members. I feel that these proposals would significantly reduce Brent’s representation and distinctive voice at South Hams. They are also likely to deter younger people, and those with careers to consider, from putting themselves forward for election, because of the large number of evening parish council meetings to attend and long distances to cover for casework. Our Parish Council has already voiced its opposition to these proposals for the above reasons. We have been told that the Local Government Boundary Commission will only give the Parish Council’s representation the same weight as that from one individual. If you would like to make a representation on this issue you can do so, and find out more information, from the Commission’s interactive portal at: consultation.lgbce.org.uk or write to the Local Government Boundary Commission for England, Layden House, 76-86 Turnmill Street, London EC1M 5LG
The consultation closes on 11th November.
Cathie Pannell, District Councillor for South Brent
