Isle of Anglesey Further Draft Proposals e

8/3/2019 Isle of Anglesey Further Draft Proposals e

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LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOUNDARY COMMISSION FOR WALES

FURTHER REVIEW OF ELECTORALARRANGEMENTS DRAFT PROPOSALS

COUNTY OF ISLE OF ANGLESEY


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LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOUNDARY COMMISSION FOR WALES

FURTHER REVIEW OF ELECTORAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE

COUNTY OF ISLE OF ANGLESEY

DRAFT PROPOSALS

1. INTRODUCTION

2. SUMMARY OF PROPOSALS

3. SCOPE AND OBJECT OF THE REVIEW

4. CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED PRIOR TO DRAFTPROPOSALS

5. ASSESSMENT

6. PROPOSALS

7. RESPONSES TO THIS REPORT

APPENDIX 1 GLOSSARY OF TERMSAPPENDIX 2 EXISTING COUNCIL MEMBERSHIPAPPENDIX 3 PROPOSED COUNCIL MEMBERSHIPAPPENDIX 4 MINISTERS DIRECTION

The Local Government Boundary Commission for WalesCaradog House

1-6 St Andrews PlaceCARDIFFCF10 3BE

Tel Number: (029) 2039 5031Fax Number: (029) 2039 5250

E-mail: [email protected]


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FOREWORD

ISLE OF ANGLESEY PROPOSALS

We published our original Final Proposals for the Isle of Anglesey County Council on 31st

August 2010. These proposals have not been implemented.

Subsequently, on 28th

March 2011, the Minister for Social Justice and Local Governmentissued a new Direction to the Commission to undertake a further review of the electoralarrangements for Isle of Anglesey County Council, in so doing expressly withdrawing the2009 Directions under which the original Final Proposals were prepared.

This new Direction is specific to Anglesey and requires that we should, in the firstinstance, consider the desirability of multi-member electoral divisions throughout theCounty and that we should aim to propose a councillor to electorate ratio which is as close

as possible to 1:1,750.

We have had regard to both of these criteria in drawing up these new Draft Proposalswhilst also taking into account the evidence and representations received in earlier stagesof this review. They are now published for consultation and comment by interestedparties. Consultation commences on publication of this document and closes on3 January 2012.

We welcome and consider all representations made to us but it is worth restating that ourproposals are based on the legislation that binds us and the Directions to which we haveto have regard. It is therefore important that respondents bear this in mind in framing theirresponses.

We have prepared these Draft Proposals having regard to our overall objectives ofproviding fairer democratic electoral arrangements which contribute to effective andconvenient local government in every part of Wales.

Max Caller CBE

ChairLocal Government Boundary Commission for Wales


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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 We, the members of the Local Government Boundary Commission for Wales, havecompleted the first stage of the further review of electoral arrangements for theCounty of Isle of Anglesey and present our Draft Proposals for the future electoralarrangements. A glossary of terms used in this report can be found at Appendix 1.

The County of Isle of Anglesey currently has an electorate of 49,484. At present itis divided into 40 electoral divisions all of which are single-member and thusreturning 40 councillors. The average number of electors to each councillor for theCounty is 1:1,237. The existing electoral arrangements have a level ofrepresentation that ranges from 48% below to 40% above the current countyaverage. The present electoral arrangements are set out in detail in Appendix 2.

2. SUMMARY OF PROPOSALS

2.1 We propose a reduction in the council size from 40 to 30 elected members and achange to the arrangement of electoral divisions that will achieve a significantimprovement in the level of electoral parity across the County of Isle of Anglesey.The average number of electors to each councillor for the County is proposed tobe 1,649. The proposed electoral arrangements have a level of representationthat ranges from North-Western Anglesey - 8% below the proposed countyaverage - to Western Anglesey at 20% above the proposed county average. Theproposed electoral arrangements are set out in detail in Appendix 3.

3. SCOPE AND OBJECT OF THE REVIEW

3.1 Section 57 of the Local Government Act 1972 (the 1972 Act) lays upon the

Commission the duty, at intervals of not less than ten and not more than fifteenyears, to review the electoral arrangements for every principal area in Wales forthe purpose of considering whether or not to make proposals to the WelshGovernment for a change in those electoral arrangements.

3.2 In 2009 the Commission began a review of electoral arrangements for the Isle ofAnglesey and submitted its report to the Minister on 31 August 2010. In aStatement to the National Assembly for Wales on 16 March 2011, the Ministerstated his intention to issue a fresh Direction to the Commission to conduct afurther review of the electoral arrangements for the Isle of Anglesey. ThisDirection was issued to the Commission on 28 March 2011. Upon taking office we

considered that, in order to undertake an effective review, this target date ought tobe revised and we wrote to the Minister to ask him to vary the Direction.

3.3 Our Review is now at the consultation stage and our proposals demonstrate animprovement on the existing arrangements by bringing more of the electoraldivisions on Anglesey closer to the 1,750 electors per councillor ratio mentioned inthe Direction. It is appreciated that this Direction requires a completely newstructure and the consultation stage offers interested parties the opportunity topropose further alternative arrangements that satisfy the rules laid out below andtake heed of the conditions described in the Ministers Direction the full text ofwhich is at Appendix 4.


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Ministers Directions

3.4 We have been directed by the Minister for Local Government and Communities toundertake a further review of the electoral arrangements for the County of Isle ofAnglesey with a view to considering and formulating proposals for future

arrangements.

3.5 The review is to be carried out under Sections 58(3), 59(1), and 78, of the 1972Act (as substituted by the 1994 Act). In considering the electoral arrangements theCommission shall, as far as is reasonably practicable, comply with the rules set outin paragraph 1A of Schedule 11 to the 1972 Act (as inserted by the 1994 Act). TheWelsh Government has withdrawn its earlier Direction to the Commission andissued a new Direction in respect of the further review and a copy is enclosed(Appendix 4).

3.6 The Minister's current Direction is as set out in Appendix 4 of this report. In our

draft proposals we have complied with all aspects of the Direction except withregard to the end date specified by the Minister as set out in the full text of theDirection at paragraph 5.

3.7 The Minister has also given the following directions to us for our guidance inconducting this review:

a) the Commission shall, in the first instance, consider the desirability of multi-member electoral divisions throughout the County; and

b) the Commission should aim to propose a councillor to elector ratio which is asclose as possible to 1:1,750

Electoral Arrangements

3.8 The electoral arrangements of a principal area are defined in section 78 of the1972 Act as:

i) the total number of councillors to be elected to the council;

ii) the number and boundaries of electoral divisions;

iii) the number of councillors to be elected for each electoral division; and

iv) the name of any electoral division.

Rules to Be Observed Considering Electoral Arrangements

3.9 We are required by section 78 of the 1972 Act to comply, so far as is reasonablypracticable, with the rules set out in Schedule 11 to that Act (as amended by theLocal Government (Wales) Act 1994 [the 1994 Act]). These require theCommission to provide for there to be a single member for each electoral division.

However, the Minister may direct the Commission to consider the desirability ofproviding for multi-member electoral divisions for the whole or part of a principalarea.


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3.10 The rules also require that:

Having regard to any change in the number or distribution of local governmentelectors of the principal area likely to take place within the period of five yearsimmediately following consideration of the electoral arrangements:

i) subject to paragraph ii) the number of local government electors shall be, asnearly as may be, the same in every electoral division in the principal area;

ii) where there are one or more multi-member divisions, the ratio of the numberof local government electors to the number of councillors to be elected shallbe, as nearly as may be, the same in every electoral division in the principalarea (including any that are not multi-member divisions);

iii) every ward of a community having a community council (whether separate orcommon) shall lie wholly within a single electoral division; and

iv) every community which is not divided into community wards shall lie whollywithin a single electoral division.

In considering the electoral arrangements, we must have regard to (a) thedesirability of fixing boundaries which are and will remain easily identifiable; and (b)any local ties which would be broken by the fixing of any particular boundary.

Local Government Changes

3.11 Since the last review of electoral arrangements in October 1999 there have beentwo changes to local government boundaries in The Isle of Anglesey CountyCouncil:

3.12 The County of Isle of Anglesey (Holyhead, Trearddur, Cwm Cadnant, Penmynydd,Pentraeth, and Llanfair-Mathafarn-Eithaf Communities) Order 2009. This Ordermade consequential changes to the boundaries of electoral divisions in theseareas.

3.13 The Cyngor Sir Ynys Mon/ Isle of Anglesey County Council review of electoralarrangements (Tysilio and Cadnant Wards Menai Bridge and Llangefni Town

Council) Order 1998 made changes to the boundary between the Cadnant andTysilio wards of the Community of Menai Bridge.

Procedure

3.14 Section 60 of the 1972 Act lays down procedural guidelines which are to befollowed in carrying out a review. In compliance with Section 60 of the 1972 Actwe wrote on 7 April 2011 to the Isle of Anglesey County Council, all the communitycouncils in the area, the Member of Parliament for the local constituency, theAssembly members for the area and other interested parties to inform them of ourintention to conduct the review.

3.15 The Ministers Direction sets a limit for completion of the review which means it isnot possible to carry out the normal process of having an initial period of


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consultation at the start of the review. Therefore Draft Proposals have beenproduced and we invite representations in respect of these proposals. Havingconsidered the representations, Final Proposals will then be published andsubmitted to the Minister by the end of April 2012.

4. CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED PRIOR TO DRAFT PROPOSALS

4.1 We received correspondence from Mr Ieuan Wyn Jones AM, and 13 town andcommunity councils which commented on the Ministers Direction dated 28 March2011 and these have been forwarded to the Minister.

5. ASSESSMENT

Council size and Councillor to electorate ratio

5.1 At present the council has 40 members. The current councillor to electorate ratiois 1:1,237 which is 29% below the indicative ratio of 1,750 electors per councillor(see councillor to electorate ratio below). Under current electoral arrangements,each of the electoral divisions is represented by one councillor: there are no multi-member divisions. In respect of the number of electors per councillor for eachelectoral division there is a wide variation from the current county average of 1,237electors per councillor, ranging from 48% below the current county average(Holyhead Town) to 40% above the current county average (Llaneilian). TheMinisters Direction directs that the Commission should aim to propose a councillorto elector ratio for the Isle of Anglesey which is as close as possible to 1:1,750.Applying this ratio across the County would result in a council of 29 members.

5.2 We have reviewed the electoral arrangements for the County in the light of theMinisters directions. In our deliberations we considered the ratio of localgovernment electors to the number of councillors to be elected, with a view toproposing changes to ensure that the number of local government electors shallbe, as nearly as may be, the same in every electoral division. We have consideredthe size and character of the principal council area and a range of other factorsincluding population density, the topography, road communications and local ties.

5.3 We consider that in the interests of effective and convenient local government acouncil size of 30 would be appropriate to represent the County of Isle ofAnglesey. The proposed council size results in an average of 1,649 electors being

represented by each councillor. This councillor to elector ratio is within 6% of theratio of 1:1,750 directed by the Minister.

Number of Electors

5.4 The numbers shown in Appendix 2 as the electorate for 2011 and the estimates forthe electorate in the year 2016 are those provided by the Isle of Anglesey CountyCouncil. The forecast figures supplied by the Council show an increase in theelectorate of 1,575 from 49,484 to 51,059.


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Electoral Divisions

5.5 Details of the current electoral arrangements can be found at Appendix 2. In linewith the Ministers Direction we propose changes to all the electoral divisions in theCounty of Isle of Anglesey. Details of the draft proposals are at Appendix 3

5.6 In the following section the proposals for each of the new electoral divisions arelaid out in the same way. The first part of the initial paragraph for each newelectoral division to be considered gives a historical context by listing all theexisting electoral divisions or their component parts used to construct eachproposed electoral division. These components - the communities and communitywards - are described as a complete community together with its current andprojected electorates if it was used as such. If only part of a community is used -i.e. a community ward - then the name of that community ward, its electoratefigures, and the name of its community will be shown as such. Finally, in eachnew electoral division, the component parts of that proposal are listed in the sameway - either as whole communities with current and projected electorates, or as a

named community ward, its electorate figures and the name of its community - asbefore. This method of describing the make-up of electoral divisions is also usedin the tables at Appendix 2 and 3.

Holyhead Electoral Divisions (Holyhead Town, Kingsland, London Road,Morawelon, Maeshyfryd; Porthyfelin, and Parc ar Mynydd)

5.7 The existing Holyhead Town electoral division consists of the Town ward of theCommunity of Holyhead with 640 electors (666 projected) represented by onecouncillor which gives a level of representation that is 48% below the countyaverage of 1,237 electors per councillor and 63% below 1,750 electors percouncillor. The existing Kingsland electoral division consists of the Kingsland wardof the Community of Holyhead with 974 electors (1,003 projected) represented byone councillor which gives a level of representation 21% below the county averageof 1,237 electors per councillor and 44% below 1,750 electors per councillor. Theexisting London Road electoral division consists of the London Road ward of theCommunity of Holyhead with 914 electors (939 projected) represented by onecouncillor which gives a level of representation that is 26% below the countyaverage of 1,237 electors per councillor and 48% below 1,750 electors percouncillor. The existing Maeshyfryd electoral division consists of the Maeshyfrydward of the Community of Holyhead with 1391 electors (1,428 projected)

represented by one councillor which gives a level of representation that is 12%above the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 21% below 1,750electors per councillor. The existing Morawelon electoral division consists of theMorawelon ward of the Community of Holyhead with 923 electors (953 projected)represented by one councillor which gives a level of representation that is 25%below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 47% below 1,750electors per councillor. The existing Parc-ar-Mynydd electoral division consists ofthe Parc-ar-Mynydd ward of the Community of Holyhead with 898 electors (923projected) represented by one councillor which gives a level of representation thatis 27% below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 49% below1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Porthyfelin electoral division consists of

the Porthyfelin ward of the Community of Holyhead with 1,462 electors (1,508projected) represented by one councillor which gives a level of representation that


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is 18% above the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 16% below1,750 electors per councillor.

5.8 There is wide variation in the level of representation between electoral divisionsformed from wards of the same community ranging from Holyhead Town at 48%below the current county average to Porthyfelin at 18% above. All of these

electoral divisions have levels of representation that are below 1,750 electors percouncillor, many of them significantly so. We therefore propose alternativearrangements for the area.

5.9 We propose combining the existing electoral divisions of Holyhead Town 640electors (666 projected); London Road 914 electors (939 projected); Morawelon923 electors (953 projected); Parc ar Mynydd 898 electors (927 projected); andPorthyfelin 1,462 electors (1,508 projected) to form an electoral division with 4,837electors (4,993 projected) which, if represented by three councillors, would result ina level of representation of 1,612 electors per councillor that is 2% below theproposed county average of 1,649 electors per councillor and 8% below 1,750

electors per councillor. This improves the level of electoral parity in the area andwe put this forward as a proposal. We have given the proposed electoral divisiona working name of Holy Island Port. We would welcome any suggestions foralternative names.

Holyhead Electoral Divisions (Holyhead Town, Kingsland, London Road,Morawelon, Maeshyfryd; Porthyfelin, and Parc ar Mynydd); and Trearddur

5.10 The existing Holyhead Town electoral division consists of the Town ward of theCommunity of Holyhead with 640 electors (666 projected) represented by onecouncillor which gives a level of representation that is 48% below the countyaverage of 1,237 electors per councillor and 63% below 1,750 electors percouncillor. The existing Kingsland electoral division consists of the Kingsland wardof the Community of Holyhead with 974 electors (1,003 projected) represented byone councillor which gives a level of representation 21% below the county averageof 1,237 electors per councillor and 44% below 1,750 electors per councillor. Theexisting London Road electoral division consists of the London Road ward of theCommunity of Holyhead with 914 electors (939 projected) represented by onecouncillor which gives a level of representation that is 26% below the countyaverage of 1,237 electors per councillor and 48% below 1,750 electors percouncillor. The existing Maeshyfryd electoral division consists of the Maeshyfryd

ward of the Community of Holyhead with 1391 electors (1,428 projected)represented by one councillor which gives a level of representation that is 12%above the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 21% below 1,750electors per councillor. The existing Morawelon electoral division consists of theMorawelon ward of the Community of Holyhead with 923 electors (953 projected)represented by one councillor which gives a level of representation that is 25%below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 47% below 1,750electors per councillor. The existing Parc-ar-Mynydd electoral division consists ofthe Parc-ar-Mynydd ward of the Community of Holyhead with 898 electors (923projected) represented by one councillor which gives a level of representation thatis 27% below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 49% below

1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Porthyfelin electoral division consists ofthe Porthyfelin ward of the Community of Holyhead with 1,462 electors (1,508projected) represented by one councillor which gives a level of representation that


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is 18% above the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 16% below1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Trearddur electoral division consists ofthe Communities of Trearddur 1,272 electors (1,313 projected) and Rhoscolyn 428electors (443 projected) represented by one councillor giving a level ofrepresentation of 1,700 electors (1,756 projected) per councillor which is 37%above the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 3% below 1,750

electors per councillor.

5.11 There is wide variation in the level of representation between electoral divisionsformed from wards of the same community ranging from Holyhead Town at 48%below the current county average to Porthyfelin at 18% above. All of theseelectoral divisions have levels of representation that are below 1,750 electors percouncillor, many of them significantly so. We therefore propose alternativearrangements for the area which include the placement of some of the wards ofthe Community of Holyhead with neighbouring communities to harmonise electoralparity in the area.

5.12 We propose combining the existing electoral divisions of Kingsland 974 electors(1,003 projected); Maeshyfryd 1,391 electors (1,428 projected); and theCommunities of Trearddur 1,272 electors (1,313 projected) and Rhoscolyn 428electors (443 projected) to form an electoral division with 4,065 electors (4,187projected) which, if represented by three councillors, would result in a level ofrepresentation of 1,355 electors per councillor that is 18% below the proposedcounty average of 1,649 electors per councillor and 23% below 1,750 electors percouncillor. This improves the level of electoral parity in the area and we put thisforward as a proposal. We have given the proposed electoral division a workingname ofHoly Island Rural. We would welcome any suggestions for alternativenames.

Aberffraw, Bodorgan and Rhosyr

5.13 The existing Aberffraw electoral division consists of the Community of Aberffrawwith 498 electors (517 projected) and the Maelog ward of the Community ofLlanfaelog with 579 electors (596 projected) - 1,077 electors (1,113 projected) intotal - represented by one councillor that is 13% below the county average of 1,237electors per councillor and 38% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existingBodorgan electoral division consists of the Community of Bodorgan with 699electors (720 projected) and the Llangristiolus ward of the Community of

Llangristiolus with 576 electors (595 projected) - 1,275 electors (1,315 projected) intotal - represented by one councillor that is 3% above the county average of 1,237electors per councillor and 27% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existingRhosyr electoral division consists of the Community of Rhosyr with 1,658 electors(1,711 projected) represented by one councillor that is 34% above the countyaverage of 1,237 electors per councillor and 5% below 1,750 electors percouncillor.

5.14 In common with all other areas across the County we noted the wide variation inthe level of representation and that all of these electoral divisions also have levelsof representation that are below 1,750 electors per councillor, some of them

significantly so. We have, therefore considered alternative arrangements for thearea.


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5.15 We propose combining the communities of Aberffraw 498 electors (518 projected);Bodorgan 699 electors (720 projected); and Rhosyr 1,658 electors (1,711projected) to form an electoral division with 2,855 electors (2,949 projected) which,if represented by two councillors, would result in a level of representation of 1,428electors per councillor that is 13% below the proposed county average of 1,649electors per councillor and 18% below 1,750 electors per councillor. We consider

that this improves the level of electoral parity in the area. We put this forward as aproposal and we have given the proposed electoral division a working name ofSouthern Anglesey. We would welcome any suggestions for alternative names.

Beaumaris, Cwm Cadnant, Llangoed and Pentraeth

5.16 The existing Beaumaris electoral division consists of the Community of Beaumariswith 1,370 electors (1,407 projected) represented by one councillor that is 10%above the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 22% below 1,750electors per councillor. The existing Cwm Cadnant electoral division consists ofthe Community of Cwm Cadnant with 1,710 electors (1,761 projected) represented

by one councillor that is 38% above the county average of 1,237 electors percouncillor and 2% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Llangoedelectoral division consists of the Community of Llangoed with 981 electors (1,016projected) represented by one councillor that is 21% below the county average of1,237 electors per councillor and 44% below 1,750 electors per councillor. Theexisting Pentraeth electoral division consists of the Community of Llanddona with517 electors (536 projected) and the Community of Pentraeth with 906 electors(935 projected) - 1,423 electors (1,471 projected) in total - represented by onecouncillor that is 15% above the county average of 1,237 electors per councillorand 19% below 1,750 electors per councillor.

5.17 In common with all other areas across the County we noted the wide variation inthe level of representation and that all of these electoral divisions also have levelsof representation that are below 1,750 electors per councillor, some of themsignificantly so. We have, therefore considered alternative arrangements for thearea.

5.18 We propose combining the Communities of Beaumaris 1,370 electors (1,407projected); Cwm Cadnant 1,710 electors (1,761 projected); Llanddona 517 electors(536 projected) and Llangoed with 981 electors (1,016 projected) to form anelectoral division with 4,578 electors (4,720 projected) which, if represented by

three councillors, would result in a level of representation of 1,526 electors percouncillor that is 7% below the proposed county average of 1,649 electors percouncillor and 13% below 1,750 electors per councillor. We consider that thisimproves the level of electoral parity in the area and we put this forward as aproposal. We have given the proposed electoral division a working name ofEastern Anglesey. We would welcome any suggestions for alternative names.

Brynteg, Llanddyfnan, Llanbedrgoch, Moelfre and Pentraeth

5.19 The existing Brynteg electoral division consists of the Benllech B 1,141 electors(1,183 projected) and the Brynteg 360 electors (372 projected) Wards of the

Community of Llanfair-Mathafarn-Eithaf - 1,501 electors (1,555 projected) in total -represented by one councillor that is 22% above the county average of 1,237electors per councillor and 14% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existing


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Llanddyfnan electoral division consists of the Community of Llanddyfnan with 827electors (843 projected) and the Community of Llaneugrad with 211 electors (217projected) - 1,038 electors (1,060 projected) in total - represented by one councillorthat is 16% below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 41%below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Llanbedrgoch electoral divisionconsists of the Benllech A 764 electors (790 projected) and the Llanbedrgoch

377 electors (391 projected) Wards of the Community of Llanfair-Mathafarn-Eithaf- 1,141 electors (1,181 projected) in total - represented by one councillor that is 8%below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 35% below 1,750electors per councillor. The existing Moelfre electoral division consists of theCommunity of Moelfre with 779 electors (809 projected) represented by onecouncillor that is 37% below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillorand 55% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Pentraeth electoraldivision consists of the Community of Llanddona with 517 electors (536 projected)and the Community of Pentraeth with 906 electors (935 projected) - 1,423 electors(1,471 projected) in total - represented by one councillor that is 15% above thecounty average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 19% below 1,750 electors per

councillor.

5.20 In common with other areas across the County we noted the wide variation in thelevel of representation and that all of these electoral divisions also have levels ofrepresentation that are below 1,750 electors per councillor, some of themsignificantly so. We have, therefore considered alternative arrangements for thearea.

5.21 We propose combining the Communities of Moelfre 779 electors (809 projected);Llaneugrad 211 electors (217 projected); Llanfair-Mathafarn-Eithaf 2,642 electors(2,736 projected); Pentraeth 906 electors (935 projected); and the LlanfihangelTrer Beirdd Ward of the Community of Llanddyfnan 198 electors (202 projected) toform an electoral division with 4,736 electors (4,899 projected) which, ifrepresented by three councillors, would result in a level of representation of 1,579electors per councillor that is 4% below the proposed county average of 1,649electors per councillor and 10% below 1,750 electors per councillor. We considerthat this improves the level of electoral parity in the area and we put this forward asa proposal. We have given the proposed electoral division a working name ofNorth-Eastern Anglesey. We would welcome any suggestions for alternativenames.

Bodffordd, Mechell, Llannerch-y-medd, Llanfaethlu and Llanfair-yn-Neubwll

5.22 The existing Bodffordd electoral division consists of the Community of Bodffordd751 electors (776 projected) and the Cerrigceinwen 432 electors (446 projected)ward of the Community of Llangristiolus with a total of 1,183 electors (1,222projected) represented by one councillor which gives a level of representation thatis 4% below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 32% below1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Mechell electoral division consists ofthe Community of Mechell 958 electors (985 projected) and the Llanfairynghornwy194 electors (200 projected) ward of the Community of Cylch-y-Garn representedby one councillor giving a level of representation of 1,152 electors (1,185

projected) per councillor which is 7% below the county average of 1,237 electorsper councillor and 34% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Llanfair-yn-Neubwll electoral division consists of the Communities of Bodedern with 764


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electors (790 projected) and Llanfair-yn-Neubwll with 940 electors (961 projected)represented by one councillor giving a level of representation of 1,704 electors(1,751 projected) per councillor which is 38% above the county average of 1,237electors per councillor and 3% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existingLlannerch-y-medd electoral division consists of the Communities of Llannerch-y-medd with 956 electors (990 projected) and Tref Alaw with 402 electors (416

projected) represented by one councillor giving a level of representation of 1,365electors (1,406 projected) per councillor which is 10% above the county average of1,237 electors per councillor and 22% below 1,750 electors per councillor. Theexisting Llanfaethlu electoral division consists of the Communities of Llanfachreth423 (436 projected) and Llanfaethlu 397 (412 projected) and the Llanrhuddlad 400(414 projected) ward of the Community of Cylch-y-Garn represented by onecouncillor giving a level of representation of 1,220 electors (1,262 projected) percouncillor which is 1% below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillorand 30% below 1,750 electors per councillor.

5.23 We noted the wide variation in the level of representation and that all of these

electoral divisions also have levels of representation that are below 1,750 electorsper councillor, some of them significantly so. We have, therefore consideredalternative arrangements for the area.

5.24 We propose combining the existing communities of Bodedern 764 electors (790projected); Cylch-y-garn 594 electors (614 projected); Llanfachreth 423 electors(436 projected); Llanfaethlu 397 electors (412 projected); Mechell 958 electors(985 projected); Tref Alaw 402 electors (416 projected) and the Bodwrog 207electors (214) and Llandrygarn 137 electors (141 projected) wards of theCommunity of Bodffordd to form an electoral division with 4,838 electors (4,998projected) which, if represented by three councillors, would result in a level ofrepresentation of 1,613 electors per councillor that is 2% below the proposedcounty average of 1,649 electors per councillor and 8% below 1,750 electors percouncillor. We consider that this improves the level of electoral parity in the areaand we put this forward as a proposal. We have given the proposed electoraldivision a working name of North-Western Anglesey. We would welcome anysuggestions for alternative names.

Braint, Cadnant, Gwyngyll, Llanfihangel Ysceifiog and Tysilio

5.25 The existing Braint electoral division consists of the Braint ward of the Community

of Llanfair Pwllgwyngyll with 1,145 electors (1,170 projected) represented by onecouncillor that is 8% below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and35% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Cadnant electoral divisionconsists of the Cadnant

1ward of the Community of Menai Bridge with 822

electors (861 projected) represented by one councillor that is 34% below thecounty average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 53% below 1,750 electors percouncillor. The existing Gwyngyll electoral division consists of the Gwyngyll wardof the Community of Llanfair Pwllgwyngyll with 1,231 electors (1,282 projected)represented by one councillor which is around the county average of 1,237electors per councillor and 30% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existingLlanfihangel Ysceifiog electoral division consists of the Community of Llanfihangel

1 Community wards as they existed prior to the Cyngor Sir Ynys Mon/ Isle of Anglesey County Council review ofelectoral arrangements (Tysilio and Cadnant Wards Menai Bridge and Llangefni Town Council) Order 1998


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Ysceifiog with 1,137 electors (1,175 projected) and the Community of Penmynyddwith 338 electors (348 projected) with 1,475 electors (1,523 projected) in totalrepresented by one councillor which gives a level of representation that is 19%above the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 16% below 1,750electors per councillor. The existing Tysilio electoral division consists of theTysilio

2ward of the Community of Menai Bridge with 1,499 electors (1,531

projected) represented by one councillor that is 21% above the county average of1,237 electors per councillor and 14% below 1,750 electors per councillor.

5.26 In common with all other areas across the County we noted the wide variation inthe level of representation and that all of these electoral divisions also have levelsof representation that are below 1,750 electors per councillor, some of themsignificantly so. We have, therefore considered alternative arrangements for thearea.

5.27 We propose combining the communities of Llanfair Pwllgwyngyll 2,376 electors(2,452 projected); Menai Bridge 2,321 electors (2,392 projected); and Penmynydd

338 electors (348 projected); to form an electoral division with 5,035 electors(5,192 projected) which, if represented by three councillors, would result in a levelof representation of 1,613 electors per councillor that is 2% below the proposedcounty average of 1,649 electors per councillor and 8% below 1,750 electors percouncillor. The divisions to be amalgamated are of a similar character, closelyadjoining each other with good communications and other social and cultural links.We consider that this improves the level of electoral parity in the area. We put thisforward as a proposal and we have given the proposed electoral division a workingname of South-Central Anglesey. We would welcome any suggestions foralternative names.

Bodffordd, Bodorgan, Llanidan and Llanfihangel Ysceifiog

5.28 The existing Bodffordd electoral division consists of the Community of Bodffordd751 electors (776 projected) and the Cerrigceinwen 432 elected (446 projected)ward of the Community of Llangristiolus with 1,183 electors (1,222 projected) intotal represented by one councillor which gives a level of representation that is 4%below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 32% below 1,750electors per councillor. The existing Bodorgan electoral division consists of theCommunity of Bodorgan with 699 electors (720 projected) and the Llangristiolusward of the Community of Llangristiolus with 576 electors (595 projected) with

1,277 electors (1,315 projected) in total represented by one councillor which givesa level of representation that is 3% above the county average of 1,237 electors percouncillor and 27% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Llanidanelectoral division consists of the Communities of Llanidan 756 electors (785projected) and Llanddaniel Fab 569 electors (588 projected) with 1,325 electors(1,373 projected) in total represented by one councillor which gives a level ofrepresentation that is 7% above the county average of 1,237 electors percouncillor and 24% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existing LlanfihangelYsceifiog electoral division consists of the Community of Llanfihangel Ysceifiogwith 1,137 electors (1,175 projected) and the Community of Penmynydd with 338electors (348 projected) - 1,475 electors (1,523 projected) in total - represented by

2Community wards as they existed prior to the Cyngor Sir Ynys Mon/ Isle of Anglesey County Council review ofelectoral arrangements (Tysilio and Cadnant Wards Menai Bridge and Llangefni Town Council) Order 1998


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one councillor that is 19% above the county average of 1,237 electors percouncillor and 16% below 1,750 electors per councillor.

5.29 In common with all other areas across the County we noted the wide variation inthe level of representation and that all of these electoral divisions also have levelsof representation that are below 1,750 electors per councillor. We have, therefore

considered alternative arrangements for the area.

5.30 We propose combining the communities of Llanidan 756 electors (785 projected);Llanfihangel Ysceifiog 1,137 electors (1,175 projected); Llanddaniel Fab 569electors (588 projected); and Llangristiolus 1,008 electors (1,041 projected) to forman electoral division with 3,470 electors (3,589 projected) which, if represented bytwo councillors, would result in a level of representation of 1,735 electors percouncillor that is 5% above the proposed county average of 1,649 electors percouncillor and very close to 1,750 electors per councillor. We consider that thisimproves the level of electoral parity in the area and we put this forward as aproposal. We have given the proposed electoral division a working name of

South-Eastern Anglesey. We would welcome any suggestions for alternativenames.

Amlwch Town, Amlwch Port, Llanbadrig and Llaneilian

5.31 The existing Amlwch Port electoral division consists of the Town 796 electors (829projected) and Port 838 electors (865 projected) wards of the Community ofAmlwch represented by one councillor giving a level of representation of 1,634electors (1,694 projected) per councillor which is 32% above the county average of1,237 electors per councillor and 7% below 1,750 electors per councillor. Theexisting Amlwch Rural electoral division consists of the Rural ward of theCommunity of Amlwch with 926 electors (955 projected) represented by onecouncillor that is 25% below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillorand 47% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Llanbadrig electoraldivision consists of the Community of Llanbadrig with 997 electors (1,022projected) represented by one councillor that is 19% below the county average of1,237 electors per councillor and 43% below 1,750 electors per councillor Theexisting Llaneilian electoral division consists of the Community of Llaneilian with897 electors (926 projected) and the Community of Rhosybol with 838 electors(864 projected) - 1,735 electors (1,790 projected) in total - represented by onecouncillor that is 40% above the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor

and 1% below 1,750 electors per councillor

5.32 We noted the wide variation in the level of representation and that all of theseelectoral divisions also have levels of representation that are below 1,750 electorsper councillor, some of them significantly so. We have, therefore consideredalternative arrangements for the area.

5.33 We propose combining the existing communities of Amlwch 2,560 electors (2,649projected); Llanbadrig 997 electors (1,021 projected); Llaneilian 897 electors (926projected); and Rhosybol 838 electors (864 projected); to form an electoral divisionwith 5,292 electors (5,460 projected) which, if represented by three councillors,

would result in a level of representation of 1,764 electors per councillor that is 7%above the proposed county average of 1,649 electors per councillor and 1% above1,750 electors per councillor. We put this forward as a proposal and we have


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given the proposed electoral division a working name ofNorthern Anglesey. Wewould welcome any suggestions for alternative names.

Bryngwran, Bodffordd, Cyngar, Cefni, Llanddyfnan, Llannerch-y-medd and Tudur

5.34 The existing Bryngwran electoral division consists of the Community of Bryngwran

with 601 electors (615 projected) and the Community of Trewalchmai with 692electors (717 projected) represented by one councillor which gives a level ofrepresentation that is 4% above the county average of 1,237 electors percouncillor and 26% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Bodfforddelectoral division consists of the Community of Bodffordd 751 electors (776projected) and the Cerrigceinwen 432 electors (446 projected) ward of theCommunity of Llangristiolus with a total of 1,183 electors (1,222 projected)represented by one councillor which gives a level of representation that is 4%below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 32% below 1,750electors per councillor. The existing Cyngar electoral division consists of theCyngar ward of the Community of Llangefni with 1,465 electors (1,509 projected)

represented by one councillor that is 18% above the county average of 1,237electors per councillor and 16% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existingCefni electoral division consists of the Cefni ward of the Community of Llangefniwith 1,156 electors (1,196 projected) represented by one councillor that is 7%below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 34% below 1,750electors per councillor. The existing Llanddyfnan electoral division consists of theCommunity of Llanddyfnan with 827 electors (843 projected) and the Communityof Llaneugrad with 211 electors (217 projected) - 1,038 electors (1,060 projected)in total - represented by one councillor that is 16% below the county average of1,237 electors per councillor and 41% below 1,750 electors per councillor. Theexisting Llannerch-y-medd electoral division consists of the Community ofLlannerch-y-medd with 956 electors (990 projected) and the Community of TrefAlaw with 402 electors (416 projected) represented by one councillor which gives alevel of representation of 1,358 electors (1,406 projected) per councillor which is10% above the county average of 1,237 electors per councillor and 22% below1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Tudur electoral division consists of theTudur ward of the Community of Llangefni with 879 electors (915 projected)represented by one councillor that is 29% below the county average of 1,237electors per councillor and 50% below 1,750 electors per councillor.

5.35 In common with all other areas across the County we have noted the wide

variation in the level of representation and that all of these electoral divisions alsohave levels of representation that are below 1,750 electors per councillor, some ofthem significantly so. We have, therefore considered alternative arrangements forthe area.

5.36 We propose combining the communities of Bryngwran 601 electors (615projected); Llangefni 3,500 electors (3,620 projected); Llannerch-y-medd 956electors (990 projected); Trewalchmai 692 electors (717 projected); the Heneglwys407 electors (420 projected) ward of the Community of Bodffordd; and theLlanddyfnan 477 electors (491 projected), Llangwyllog 94 electors (90 projected)and Tregaean 58 electors (60 projected) wards of the Community of Llanddyfnan

to form an electoral division with 5,829 electors (6,013 projected) which, ifrepresented by three councillors, would result in a level of representation of 1,943electors per councillor that is 18% above the proposed county average of 1,649


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electors per councillor and 11% above 1,750 electors per councillor. We considerthat this improves the level of electoral parity in the area and we put this forward asa proposal. We have given the proposed electoral division a working name ofCentral Anglesey. We would welcome any suggestions for alternative names.

Rhosneigr, Valley and Llanfair-yn-Neubwll

5.37 The existing Rhosneigr electoral division consists of the Rhosneigr ward of theCommunity of Llanfaelog with 696 electors (716 projected) represented by onecouncillor which is 44% below the county average of 1,237 electors per councillorand 60% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existing Valley electoral divisionconsists of the Community of Valley with 1,734 electors (1,785 projected)represented by one councillor which is 40% above the county average of 1,237electors per councillor and 1% below 1,750 electors per councillor. The existingLlanfair-yn-Neubwll electoral division consists of the Communities of Bodedernwith 764 electors (790 projected) and Llanfair-yn-Neubwll with 940 electors (961projected) represented by one councillor giving a level of representation of 1,704

electors (1,751 projected) per councillor which is 38% above the county average of1,237 electors per councillor and 3% below 1,750 electors per councillor.

5.38 We noted the wide variation in the level of representation and that all of theseelectoral divisions also have levels of representation that are below 1,750 electorsper councillor, some of them significantly so. We have, therefore consideredalternative arrangements for the area.

5.39 We propose combining the communities of Llanfaelog 1,275 electors (1,312projected); Llanfair-yn-Neubwll 940 electors (961 projected); Rhoscolyn 428electors (443 projected); and Valley 1,734 electors (1,786 projected); to form anelectoral division with 3,949 electors (4,059 projected) which, if represented bytwo councillors, would result in a level of representation of 1,975 electors percouncillor that is 20% above the proposed county average of 1,649 electors percouncillor and 13% above 1,750 electors per councillor. We consider that thisimproves the level of electoral parity in the area and we put this forward as aproposal. We have given the proposed electoral division a working name ofWestern Anglesey. We would welcome any suggestions for alternative names.This leaves Bodedern outside an electoral division and we have dealt with this inparagraph 5.24 above.

Summary of Proposed Arrangements

5.40 The proposed electoral arrangements (as shown at Appendix 3) provide a level ofrepresentation that ranges from Holy Island Rural - with 18% below - to WesternAnglesey at 20% above the proposed county average of 1,649 electors percouncillor (based on the existing electoral figures). Four (36%) of the proposedelectoral divisions have levels of representation more than 10% above or belowthe proposed county average of 1,649 electors per councillor and the remainingseven (64%) all less than 10% above or below the proposed county average of1,649 electors per councillor. This compares with the existing electoralarrangements (as shown at Appendix 2) where the level of representation ranges

from 48% below the current county average (Holyhead Town) to 40% above thecurrent county average (Llaneilian) of 1,237 electors per councillor. Under existingarrangements 14 electoral divisions (35%) have levels of representation more than


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25% above or below the current county average of 1,237 electors per councillor,14 (35%) electoral divisions have levels of representation between 10% and 25%above or below than the current county average of 1,237 electors per councillorand the remaining 12 (30%) electoral divisions have levels of representation lessthan 10% above or below the current county average of 1,237 electors percouncillor.

5.41 In producing a scheme of electoral arrangements we must have regard to anumber of issues contained in the legislation and in the Ministers Directions. It isnot always possible to resolve all of these, sometimes conflicting, issues becauseof the requirement to use the existing communities and community wards as thebuilding blocks of electoral divisions and the varying level of representation thatcurrently exists within the County. In our proposed scheme we have placedemphasis on achieving improvements in electoral parity, moving towards 1,750electors per councillor. We recognise that the creation of electoral divisions whichdepart from the pattern which now exists would inevitably bring some disruption toexisting ties between communities and may straddle community council areas.

We have made every effort to ensure that the revised electoral divisions do reflectlogical combinations of existing communities and community wards. We havelooked at each of these areas and are satisfied that it would be difficult to achieveelectoral arrangements that keep the existing combination of communities andcommunity wards within single electoral divisions without having a detrimentaleffect on one or more of the other issues that we must consider. We recognisehowever that there may be different combinations of communities and communitywards that better reflect community ties and we would welcome any alternativesuggestions that comply with the legislation and the directions.

5.42 In this document the eleven proposed electoral divisions have been given workingnames which are intended to represent an area rather than particular settlements,villages, or towns. We recognise that there may be names that are moreappropriate and we would welcome alternative suggestions but we would requestthat these suggested names should not merely consist of listed communities andvillages but, instead, should reflect the character of the areas involved as well asbeing effective in either English or Welsh.

6. PROPOSALS

6.1 We propose a council of 30 members and 11 electoral divisions as set out in

Appendix 3. This compares with 40 Councillors representing 40 divisions underexisting arrangements. At present all divisions are represented by one councillor;under our proposals all divisions become multi-member. For purposes ofcomparison the present electoral arrangements for the County are given atAppendix 2. The boundaries of the proposed electoral divisions are shown bycontinuous yellow lines on the map placed on deposit with this report at the officeof the Isle of Anglesey County Council and at the office of the Commission inCardiff.

6.2 This draft scheme represents our preliminary views on the electoral arrangementsfor the County of Isle of Anglesey. We welcome and will consider any

representations in respect of these proposals prior to formulating our finalproposals and submitting them to the Welsh Government.


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7. RESPONSES TO THIS REPORT

7.1 All observations on this draft scheme should be sent to:

The Secretary

Local Government Boundary Commission for WalesCaradog House1-6 St Andrews PlaceCardiff CF10 3BE

not later than 3 January 2012.

MR M CALLER CBE (Chairman)

Mr S BLAIR CBE (Member)

Mr O WATKIN OBE DL (Member)

Mr S HALSALL (Secretary)

November 2011


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Appendix 1

GLOSSARY OF TERMS USED IN THIS REPORT

Building BlocksBecause communities and, where they exist, communitywards, are required to lie in one electoral division, they are

used as building blocks for electoral divisions

Commission The Local Government Boundary Commission for Wales

Council size The number of councillors elected to the council

DirectionsDirections issued to the Commission by the Governmentunder Section 59 of the 1972 Act

Electoralarrangements

How many councillors there should be on the council oflocal government area, the parts into which the area

should be divided for the purpose of electing councillors,the number of councillors for each electoral division, andthe name of any electoral area

Electoraldivisions

The divisions into which principal areas are divided for thepurpose of electing councillors, sometimes referred tocolloquially as wards

Electoralreview

A review in which the Commission considers electoralarrangements for a local government area

Electorate The number of persons entitled to vote in a localgovernment area

Electoral parity

The principle that votes within a principal area shouldcarry equal weight, measured by a comparison betweenan electoral division and the county average of thenumber of electors represented by a single councillor.

Government The Welsh Assembly Government

Interested person

Person or body who has an interest in the outcome of anelectoral review such as the principal council concerned,local MPs, AMs and political parties, community and towncouncils

Multimemberdivision

Electoral division within a principal area represented bymore than one councillor

OrderOrder made by the Government, giving effect to theproposals of the Commission, either as submitted or withmodifications

Principal areaThe area governed by a principal council: in Wales, aCounty or County Borough

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Appendix 1

Principal councilIn Wales, one of the unitary authorities: a County orCounty Borough council

Projected electorateThe five-year forecast of the number of electors providedby the Council for the area under review

RespondentBody or individual person who responds to theCommissions consultation by making representations orsuggesting alternative proposals

RulesRules to be observed by the Commission in consideringelectoral arrangements

Singlememberdivision

Electoral division of a principal authority represented byone councillor

The 1972 ActThe Local Government Act 1972 as amended by the 1994Act

The 1994 Act The Local Government (Wales) Act 1994

Unitary

authority

A principal council - the single tier organ of localgovernment, responsible for all or almost all local

government functions within its area, which in Walesreplaced the two tier system of county councils and districtcouncils: a County Council, or a County Borough Council

WardsThe electoral areas of Community Councils (not allCommunity Council areas are warded). The term is alsoused to describe the principal council electoral divisions

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Appendix 4


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Appendix 4

Isle of Anglesey Further Draft Proposals e

Documents

Transcript of Isle of Anglesey Further Draft Proposals e