The number of councillors representing County Durham could be cut by 28 under new proposals.
Durham County Council could be slimmed down from 126 councillors to 98 as part of a new pattern of electoral divisions being drawn up.
The Local Government Boundary Commission, which reviews the boundaries, has decided the number of councillors should be reduced.
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The commission has been reviewing the boundaries to make sure councillors represent about the same number of electors, and that ward arrangements help the council work effectively.
Now, the commission wants to hear what residents and organisations think about their local area.
A 10-week consultation on the proposals will run until January 30 next year.
Professor Colin Mellors, chairman of the commission, said: “We want people in County Durham to help us. We are starting to draw up new electoral divisions for County Durham.
"We want our proposals for new electoral arrangements to reflect communities. We also want them to be easy to understand and convenient for local people.
“Residents and local organisations can help us understand community ties and identities at this early stage of the process.
“It’s easy to get involved. Go to our website. Or you can e-mail or write to us.
“Just tell us what you think and give us some details why you think that. It’s really simple, so do get involved.”
The Commission has a dedicated section on its website where people can give their views: www.consultation.lgbce.org.uk/node/38197
People can also give their views by e-mail at reviews@lgbce.org.uk, and by post:
The Review Officer (Durham), LGBCE, PO Box 133, Blyth, NE24 9FE.
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