The Independent Boundary Commission has been working on new parliamentary boundaries to make sure that each constituency has between 69,724-77,062 voters.
Here in Stroud, we are at 84,000 voters so I cannot get away from the fact that changes will be necessary. I love all the wonderful parts of the Stroud constituency so this will be difficult and as you are directly affected by the proposals, I am interested to hear your views.
Please consider the proposal from the Independent Boundary Commission and submit your formal response by 2nd August 2021: www.bcereviews.org.uk/node/6489
Please also write to me by email or to my Stroud constituency office – details below.
You will see that the Commission’s proposal is that Hardwicke, Painswick, Bisley and Chalford would become part of the Cotswolds constituency. Wotton under Edge and Kingswood in the south of the District would become part of Stroud.
Please note that the proposal would not alter your local council services. You would still be part of the Stroud District. It would only change your Member of Parliament.
It is also important to stress that these are only proposals at this stage. There are often many changes to boundaries before the Commission settles on the final map.
I know that many of the above towns and villages already feel very much part of the Cotswolds, particularly in connection to tourism and business so the proposals may not concern some people. I would however be grateful to hear your thoughts.
In the meantime, I will continue to speak to local people and establish what options we have locally to achieve fair sized constituencies across Gloucestershire.
I am also considering proposing a formal name change for the constituency from ‘Stroud’ to ‘Stroud, the Valleys and Vale’. I have been told for a number of years that even though Stroud is the largest town, it is important to other communities that they are included.
Finally, please note that Parliamentarians will not be voting on this issue. The Independent Boundary Commission will make a decision so it is important that we respond to the consultation.
I look forward to hearing from you and I hope you are keeping well.
Yours sincerely,
Siobhan