RESIDENTS across West Dorset can have their say about where new ward boundaries should be.

Following a public consultation the number of councillors for the district is set to drop from 48 to 43 and a new pattern of wards is needed to reflect this.

The independent body responsible for ward boundaries, the Local Government Boundary Commission for England, says it aims to draw up the new boundaries so each councillor represents roughly the same number of voters.

It will also take into account the interests and identities of communities across the district.

Chair of the Commission Max Caller said: "The starting point of an electoral review is for the Commission to take a view on the number of councillors who should represent the authority in future.

"On the evidence presented to the Commission we are minded to recommend that West Dorset should have 43 councillors.

"We are now asking local people and organisations to help us draw up new wards for the district.

"As we develop the recommendations, we will take into account local community identities as well as ensuring electoral equality for voters.

"Your views will make a difference. 

"We will carefully consider all evidence that is provided during this phase of the review whoever it is from and whether it applies to the whole district or just a small part of it."

Residents have until November 11 to give their views. For details, click here

Draft recommendations will be published in February next year.