WEYMOUTH is set to redraw its political boundaries to make them clearer.

The move is being backed by former councillor Dr Alan Chedzoy who said many of the current council ward areas did not accurately reflect the districts they represented.

Honorary Alderman Dr Chedzoy, who has represented both Weymouth and Portland Borough Council and Dorset County Council, uses the example of the Radipole ward to argue his case and he has written to borough chief executive Tom Grainger with his concerns.

He said: "The Dorchester Road district from the Spa to the Esplanade comprises the electoral ward of Radipole, despite the fact that it does not include the historic village from which it takes its name.

"Radipole village is at present included within the ward of North Central, but now I learn it may be put into Westham North. The village would then be in the ward next to the ward next to the ward which bears its name."

He added: "Surely the names of electoral wards should not be mere matters of numerical or political convenience, administrative whim or municipal ignorance. They should show respect for the historic origins of the settlements they include."

Dr Chedzoy said he was also concerned about the title 'Bincombe Valley' to describe the Littlemoor area, as the village of Bincombe lies outside the Weymouth and Portland boundary.

To confuse the two areas, he said, would be 'linguistic vandalism.'

Dr Chedzoy added: "I understand that there may be a new ward comprising Redlands, Nottington and the Spa Road area. Clearly any attempt to give it all three names would be a bit of a mouthful.

"Why not name it the Wey Valley ward? It is the river that connects all three settlements."

Electoral wards in Weymouth and Portland are currently undergoing a review by the Boundary Commission and people are invited to put forward their comments.

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council chief executive Tom Grainger said the review would make sure each councillor represents an equal number of electors, but would take into account future population changes.

Mr Grainger said: "The council has already made submissions to the Boundary Commission. A report will be published in October and everyone, including Dr Chedzoy, will have the opportunity to make representations during a consultation period."

He added: "The historical perspective of wards is important but we must also be aware of the common usage of names."