Report by Simon Allin, Local Democracy Reporter

The electoral map of Enfield is set to be redrawn, aiming to ensure local politics remains representative as the borough’s population continues to grow.

Following three rounds of public consultation, a review by The Local Government Boundary Commission for England has proposed the creation of four new electoral wards, taking the borough’s total to 25.

Under the plans, subject to government approval, Enfield will still have 63 councillors – but some wards would have only two elected representatives rather than three, as at present.

All current ward boundaries would change to some greater or lesser extent, with some also being renamed. New wards include ‘Whitewebbs’ and ‘Ridgeway’, replacing what is currently Chase ward. A ‘Highfield’ ward would be created to the east of Palmers Green, Southgate Green would be replaced by new wards ‘Arnos Grove’ and ‘New Southgate’, while ‘Carterhatch’, ‘Brimsdown’ and ‘Bullsmoor’ would replace Turkey Street and Enfield Highway wards. An ‘Oakwood’ ward would also be created.

The changes are designed to ensure the number of voters represented by each councillor is roughly the same across the borough, while maintaining community identities. Twelve wards – Arnos Grove, Bowes, Bullsmoor, Carterhatch, Cockfosters, Grange Park, Highfield, New Southgate, Oakwood, Palmers Green, Ponders End and Winchmore Hill – would be represented by two councillors instead of three.

If the changes are approved by MPs, they will come into force from 2022. Professor Colin Mellors, chairman of the commission, said: “We are extremely grateful to people across Enfield who took part in the review. The commission has looked at all the evidence that was put forward during the consultation.

“We believe these recommendations deliver electoral fairness for voters as well as reflecting community ties throughout Enfield.”

Council leader Nesil Caliskan said: “Labour group made a submission to the boundary commission a few months ago. The new proposals have, in part, taken on board our suggestions. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter what the boundaries are – Labour candidates will always fight for every vote, and Labour councillors will always represent all residents in their wards.”

The Conservative Group was approached for comment.

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