Issue - meetings

The Democratic and Electoral Services Manager introduced the report and outlined the recommended ward scheme consultation response. The purpose of the review was to achieve electoral equality across the Borough, with strong consideration of communities and maintaining effective local government. Members had contributed throughout the process through workshops, a drop-in event and individual conversations. Groups and individuals could submit proposals directly to the Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE) with supporting evidence. It was noted that a community governance review would be undertaken by the Borough Council the following year.

The Chairman read a statement from Councillors J Sams and T Sams regarding the proposed Harrietsham, Lenham and Hollingbourne Ward.

In response to questions, the Democratic and Electoral Services Manager explained that the LGBCE would consider every proposal on the evidence provided, including the impact on other wards. The narrative for Harrietsham, Lenham and Hollingbourne could be amended to reflect that some developments in Lenham were already populated, and note that the proposal affects the Parish Council.

In expressing support for the proposal and acknowledgement that it satisfied the LGBCE’s criteria, the Committee recognised the complexity of producing a ward scheme that all Members would be content with.

RESOLVED: That

1.  The response to the LGBCE consultation on ward boundaries, set out at Appendix 1 and Appendix 2 of the report, be recommended to Council for submission to the LGBCE, subject to the amendment of the narrative for Harrietsham, Lenham and Hollingbourne to reflect the Ward Councillors’ comments; and

2.  Delegated authority be given to the Democratic and Electoral Services Manager to make minor refinements to boundaries and text in Appendix 1 and Appendix 2 ahead of Council.