‘Wanstead Village’ to become a real thing

It looks like the concept of “Wanstead Village” could become a real thing. Up until now, it has existed mostly in the estate agent-speak, in the two signs at either end of the High Street, and in the ‘Wanstead Village Conservation Zone’.

But the concept could now become a reality.

The Boundary Commission has made recommendations for the redrawing of council wards within Redbridge – which would replace the existing Snaresbrook, Aldersbrook and Wanstead wards.

In their place would come, respectively, South Woodford & Snaresbrook, Wanstead Park and Wanstead Village. The old Roding ward is absorbed into Wanstead Village and South Woodford & Snaresbrook, and there will be a new Churchfields ward.

Not that people base their worldview on which council ward they live in, but it does mean that people living in Hollybush Hill, Sylvan Road and even the east side of New Wanstead will be in South Woodford & Snaresbrook rather than Wanstead.

It appears that, so far as council boundaries are concerned, Aldersbrook ceases to exist.

There is an official consultation on the changes, which can be found here, and Cllr Paul Canal, Redbridge Conservative leader is also inviting anyone with comments to get in touch with him.

The boss of the Boundary Commission, Prof Colin Mellors, said: “We are keen to hear what local people think of the recommendations. Over the next eight weeks, we are asking local people to tell us if they agree with the proposals or if not, how they can be improved.

“Our review aims to deliver electoral equality for local voters. This means that each councillor represents a similar number of people so that everyone’s vote in council elections is worth roughly the same regardless of where you live.

“We also want to ensure that our proposals reflect the interests and identities of local communities across Redbridge and that the pattern of wards can help the council deliver effective local government to local people.”