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Changes And Final Consultation Over Plans For Two Isle Of Wight MPs

Amended plans to split the Isle of Wight into two parliamentary constituencies have been published, as a final, month-long consultation launches today (Tuesday).

As previously reported by Isle of Wight Radio, the Island is set to have two MPs ahead of the next general election.

The Boundary Commission is undertaking an independent review of all constituencies in England, in an attempt to rebalance the number of electors each MP represents.

Currently, the Island is one constituency — with one MP, Conservative Bob Seely.

Now, following lengthy public consultations, final proposals have been put forward, dividing the Island into west and east.

As part of changes, East Cowes, Fairlee and Whippingham, and Osborne would transfer into the western constituency.

While, in the eastern constituency, there would be Newchurch, Havenstreet and Ashey, Ventnor and St Lawrence, and Wroxall, Lowtherville & Bonchurch.

Bob Seely had asked for the Ventnor and St Lawrence ward to be kept in the west. And Labour's suggestion of a north and south division wasn't popular either, the Boundary Commission said.

Consultees also expressed 'widespread dissatisfaction' with the names of East Wight and West Wight. Most of those responding said they would prefer the names Isle of Wight East and Isle of Wight West.

The final consultation ends on December 5, 2022. Changes can be viewed on an interactive map, here.

Islanders are invited to view and comment on the new map here — https://www.bcereviews.org.uk/.

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