The Boundary Commission have released the first draft of the amended parliamentary boundaries to take effect in 2023.
Although Sherwood remains largely intact, there are a few changes. It has been proposed that the Dumbles, Bestwood St Albans, Plains and Redhill will be moving to the Gedling Constituency. It has been an honour to serve as the Member of Parliament representing these wards since 2010.
In return, the Sherwood constituency would gain the currently split wards of Rainworth North and Rufford and Dover Beck; whilst also gaining in its entirety the Lowdham ward.
On balance, I believe that the changes to the Sherwood constituency are fair, and in keeping with the principles set out by the Boundary Commission.
Given the changes that have been proposed, we must acknowledge that there has been a shift in the balance in the constituency from the South, towards the North.
It is time that the name of our constituency reflects this, whilst also paying tribute to the heritage of the place I am very proud to represent. I am therefore calling on the Boundary Commission to change the name of the Sherwood Parliamentary Constituency to Sherwood Forest.
With your support we can achieve this change to recognise the heritage of our local area, and in turn more accurately represent the seat in Westminster.