Have your say on a new political map for Dorset Council

New boundaries are being proposed for council wards in Dorset

The Local Government Boundary Commission wants to hear what residents and local organisations think about the proposals. A 10-week consultation on the proposals will run until 9 November 2026.

Proposed wards for Dorset Council

Credit: contains Ordnance Survey data (c) Crown copyright and database rights 2026

High resolution map available at Dorset | LGBCE

The Commission is the independent body that draws these boundaries. It is reviewing Dorset Council to make sure councillors will represent about the same number of electors, and that ward arrangements will help the council work effectively. 

The Commission has published proposals for changes to Dorset Council. It is proposing that there should be 84 councillors, with 38 single-councillor wards, 14 two-councillor wards and six three-councillor wards.

Proposed changes include:

• Reconfigured Sherborne Rural and Yetminster & Yeo Valley wards, to create electoral areas that better reflect local connections while delivering good electoral equality. 
• An expanded three-councillor Blandford ward to ensure good electoral equality and provide effective representation for communities connected to Blandford Forum. 

Launching the consultation Bev Smith, Chair of the Commission, said:

"Dorset is a unique place and we want residents to help us get these boundaries right. We have drawn up proposals for new wards and want to make sure they truly reflect local communities – but we need to hear from the people who know those communities best. 

"Whether you agree with our proposals or think something should change, please let us know. Every response helps us make better decisions. Getting involved is straightforward – visit our website, send us an email or write to us. We would love to hear from you." 

The Commission has a dedicated section on its website where people can see the detail of the proposals and comment on the names of wards and their boundaries: Dorset | LGBCE

People can also give their views by e-mail at reviews@lgbce.org.uk, and by post:

Review Officer (Dorset)

LGBCE

7th Floor 

3 Bunhill Row 

London 

EC1Y 8YZ 

Ends/

Notes to editors: 

This consultation relates to arrangements for local government elections. It is separate from the review of parliamentary constituencies that has recently concluded.

For further information contact the Commission’s press office on 0330 500 1525 / 1250 or email press@lgbce.org.uk 

An interactive map is available at: Dorset | LGBCE

The Local Government Boundary Commission for England is an independent body accountable to Parliament. It recommends fair electoral and boundary arrangements for local authorities in England. In doing so, it aims to:

• Make sure that, within an authority, each councillor represents a similar number of electors

• Create boundaries that are appropriate, and reflect community ties and identities

• Deliver reviews informed by local needs, views and circumstances