A new pattern of wards is being considered for Gravesham, cutting the number of elected councillors.

The Local Government Boundary Commission has decided the number representing the borough should drop from 44 to 39.

It wants to hear what residents and organisations think in a 10-week consultation, which is running until August 2.

The review has been launched to make sure councillors represent about the same number of electors, and that ward arrangements help the council work effectively.

The Commission is interested in views on which communities should be part of the same ward. For example, what facilities do people share, such as parks, leisure centres or schools and shopping areas?

It also wants people to highlight any issues neighbouring communities face which they have in common, such as high numbers of visitors or heavy traffic.

Other questions to consider are if there has been new housing or commercial developments which have changed the focus of communities.

And are there roads, rivers, railways or other features which people believe form strong boundaries between neighbourhoods?

The Commission will use those views to help it draw up proposals for the new boundaries.

There will be a further round of consultation once the proposals have been drawn up.

Chairman of the Commission Professor Colin Mellors said: "We want people in Gravesham to help us.

"We want our proposals for new electoral arrangements to reflect communities. We also want them to be easy to understand and convenient for local people.

"Residents and local organisations can help us understand community ties and identities at this early stage of the process.

"Just tell us what you think and give us some details why you think that. It's really simple, so do get involved."

Gravesham council chief executive Stuart Bobby said: "Regular independent reviews of our ward arrangements and member representation are important if we are to ensure our ever-changing and growing communities are effectively and fairly represented in our decision making processes.

"I would encourage all of our residents to ensure their views are heard by the Boundary Commission."

People can give their views through an online form, by emailing reviews@lgbce.org.uk or via post to The Review Officer (Gravesham), LGBCE, PO Box 133, Blyth, NE 249FE.

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