Stockport residents were invited to share their thoughts on a new political map for the district.
The Local Government Boundary Commission will review its district agreements for the first time since 2003.
It is important to ensure that the council members represent roughly the same number of people and that its proposals to parliament also reflect community ties and identities.
The commission wants to hear people’s opinion on which communities should be part of the same church.
It is interested in the facilities that share different areas – from parks and leisure centers to schools and shopping areas.
And she wants to know what the neighboring communities have in common, be it heavy traffic or high visitor numbers.
The independent body will also consider whether new residential or commercial buildings have “changed the focus of the communities” – as well as the roads, railways and rivers that form strong boundaries between neighborhoods.
Professor Colin Mellors, chairman of the commission, has asked the people of Stockport to help redesign the map for the current time.
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“We want the people in Stockport to help us,” he said.
“We are starting to build new precincts for Stockport. We want our proposals for new electoral regimes to reflect the communities. We also want them to be easy to understand and convenient for local people.
“Residents and local organizations can help us understand the bonds and identities of the community at this early stage in the process.
“It’s easy to get involved. Go to our website. Or email or write to us. Just tell us what you think and give us some details as to why you think so. It’s very easy, so join us. “
How should Stockport’s new boroughs be designed? Share your thoughts below
It comes after councilors agreed in January to keep the number of elected members at 63 as part of their submission to the commission.
The council considered downsizing but decided that this would not allow the agency to “meet its objectives and demands.
This would add to the “already heavy workload” and make it more difficult to attract members with other commitments, “and thus not adequately reflect the people it serves”.
It adds: “The council believes that 63 council members are required to meet the challenges of the future and effectively provide strategic leadership, accountability and community leadership.”
The Commission will use the Stopfordians’ views to come up with proposals for new parish boundaries and there will then be another round of consultations.
The Commission has a dedicated section on its website for people to express their views: https://consultation.lgbce.org.uk/node/27795
An interactive map is available at https://consultation.lgbce.org.uk/node/27795
Residents can also email reviews@lgbce.org.uk,
Alternatively, you can send your comments by post to: Review Officer (Stockport), LGBCE, PO Box 133, Blyth, NE24 9FE
The 10-week consultation runs until August 2, 2021
