Community Governance Review - Draft Recommendation 8(b) - Rushden South

Overview

Summary of Proposal

Rushden Town Council has proposed splitting the existing Rushden South Ward into two wards that closely resemble the historic Sartoris and Bates wards. The suggested boundary between the new wards is the A5028 Bedford Road. The Sartoris Ward would take in the land to the eastern side of Bedford Road, whilst Bates ward would cover the western side.

The Town Council suggests that the Sartoris ward should be represented by 4 councillors whilst Bates ward would have 3 councillors. The number of electors per councillor would be approximately 1053 and 1191 respectively for each ward.

View the full submission (CGR 27, page 59) by Rushden Town Council.

View a map (Draft Recommendation 8a-8c, page 12) of the proposal.

Observations

The representation outlined above for Rushden South does not take account of the proposed High Hayden Garden Village development (Rushden East Sustainable Urban Extension). This development comprises 2700 new homes in total. Part of the development site is situated in the proposed Sartoris ward. Whilst it is difficult to accurately apportion development figures at present, it is estimated that approximately 290 new homes will be built during the next 5 years in this ward.

The recommendation proposed by Rushden Town Council to divide Rushden South ward into two smaller wards named Sartoris and Bates wards, re-instates a similar historic arrangement that the community is familiar with and reduces opportunities for voter confusion.

Draft recommendation (Recommendation 8b)

That the proposal to split Rushden South ward into a Sartoris ward with 4 councillors and Bates ward with 3 councillors be taken forward for further consultation.

Reason for recommendation - The proposal supports representation at a local level and facilitates effective and convenient local governance.

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