Proposals have been made that would move Alresford away from the Winchester constituency , and local MP Steve Brine is seeking residents views.
As Alresford residents may have heard, the Boundary Commission for England is currently drawing up plans to reduce the size of the House of Commons. This is primarily to equalise the size of all parliamentary constituencies, to ensure each vote has the same weight, and to save the taxpayer money. This requires a re-drawing of all constituencies, including here in Hampshire.
Early proposals meant no change to Alresford, but their latest plans propose moving Alresford (and the surrounding villages of Bighton, Gundleton and Old Alresford) to a new North East Hampshire constituency.
This would mean Alresford is no longer part of the Winchester constituency and is lumped together with Fleet and Yateley when it comes to electing a Member of Parliament.
In a joint statement, long standing local city councillor Ernie Jeffs and Town Councillor Lisa Griffiths said: "Alresford is the market town for a number of villages and is closely associated with Winchester. This makes no sense at all to link us with places like Hartley Wintney."
Winchester MP Steve Brine added: "When I first saw this proposal I thought it was some kind of April Fool joke it is so daft. Alresford looks to Winchester and has been part of Winchester when it comes to electing an MP since the 1950's, let alone the strong historical and family links we share. I am urging all my constituents in The Alresfords to have their say on this before it is too late."
The Boundary Commission will make its final report early next year and present its proposals to Parliament. If MPs vote in favour the new constituencies will come into being at the 2015 General Election.
Have your say...
These draft proposals and are out to consultation until 10th December 2012. If you have a view, please let the Boundary Commission know here.
Additionally, Steve Brine and his team will be holding their latest Alresford surgery in Broad Street on Saturday 10th November from 10-12; please do pop along and let them know what you think.
You can also download Steve's flyer on the subject here (opens as a PDF file).