22 NOVEMBER 2023
Worcester City Council have announced that there will be new ward boundaries and election system from 2024.
In a significant overhaul of electoral ward boundaries, Worcester City Council elections in May 2024 will see major changes, impacting voting locations for some residents.
The alterations are the result of a thorough review conducted by the Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE), with the commission's recommendations currently awaiting Parliamentary assent.
The LGBCE's proposal maintains the total number of city councillors at 35, but redistributes them across 16 wards, deviating from the current 15. These modifications are poised to reshape the political landscape and alter the dynamic of representation within Worcester.
Among the key changes identified in the LGBCE's recommendations:
Cathedral Ward Division: The current Cathedral ward is set to be divided into two distinct wards, a move that aims to enhance local representation and responsiveness.
Gorse Hill and Warndon Merger: The existing Gorse Hill and Warndon wards will be amalgamated, bringing about a fusion that seeks to streamline administrative processes and optimize resource allocation.
Bedwardine and St John Boundary Shift: A significant adjustment in the boundary demarcation between Bedwardine and St John wards is proposed to facilitate the creation of an entirely new ward, a strategic move in response to evolving demographics and community needs.
In addition to these major changes, several wards will undergo a name change, and minor boundary adjustments will be implemented in the remaining wards. The goal of these alterations is to ensure a fair and representative distribution of councillors across the city, aligning with the evolving demographics and community dynamics of Worcester.
While the LGBCE's recommendations await final approval, the upcoming 2024 elections are anticipated to reflect a more geographically and demographically responsive representation on the Worcester City Council.
As residents prepare for the polls in May 2024, it is essential for them to stay informed about the changes in their respective electoral wards to exercise their right to vote effectively.
As the electoral landscape undergoes this transformation, Worcester residents can look forward to a City Council that more accurately mirrors the diverse and dynamic nature of their community.
For more information regarding the election changes, visit Worcester City Council's website.
Image from Worcester City Council