The number of councillors representing residents on East Cambridgeshire District Council could be slashed by 12 under proposals unveiled this week.

The Local Government Boundary Commission for England is asking residents for their help to draw up a new pattern of council wards for East Cambridgeshire District Council.

The commission has announced that it is recommending that the council should have 27 councillors in future: 12 fewer than the current total.

The commission says it needs information from people and groups across East Cambridgeshire to help it to produce a new pattern of wards to accommodate 27 councillors.

In drawing up new boundaries, the commission says it aims to deliver “electoral equality for voters” but the review, if approved, will also save the district council ten of thousands of pounds in members expenses and other charges.

Max Caller, chairman of the boundary commission, said: “On the evidence presented to the commission, we are minded to recommend that East Cambridgeshire should have 27 councillors.

“We are now asking local people and organisations to help us draw up new wards for East Cambridgeshire. As we develop the recommendations, we will take into account local community identities as well as ensuring electoral equality for voters.

“Your views will make a difference. We will carefully consider all evidence that is provided during this phase of the review whoever it is from and whether it applies to the whole of East Cambridgeshire or just a small part of the district.”

Respondents have until August 31 to submit their views. Further information on the review and interactive maps of the existing wards can be found at www.consultation.lgbce.org.uk and www.lgbce.org.uk