As some of you may be aware, there has been an ongoing review by the Boundary Commission, into parliamentary constituencies, and last week they published their final findings:
As a result, from the next General Election:
- New Ash Green will sadly no longer fall within the Sevenoaks Constituency (although it will remain within Sevenoaks District Council). They will now join the constituency of Tonbridge and Malling.
- And, Wilmington, Sutton-at-Hone and Hawley from Dartford Borough Council will join the Sevenoaks constituency (whilst remaining part of Dartford Borough Council).
I have reiterated to the Commission throughout that I wanted to change the name of the constituency formally to Sevenoaks & Swanley. Sadly this wish was not granted. However, as far as I am concerned, I will always refer to the constituency as such, because Swanley is such an important location and should be reflected in our name.
It is with sadness that I will say goodbye to New Ash Green, but I know that my neighbour Tom Tugendhat will do a terrific job representing their views. I want to offer a warm welcome to those within Wilmington, Sutton-at-Hone and Hawley whom I look forwarding to representing.
The changes will go live later this year. I will provide an update on my timeline when I have them.
