The political map of Swindon is to be redrawn.

And the mapmakers want to hear from people living in the borough how they think it should be divided up.

In addition to a redrawing of the parliamentary constituencies, which has been brought in in time for the next general election, the boundaries of the wards making up the borough council will also be redrawn.

Currently, there are 20 wards, 18 of them with three councillors, one with two, and one with one.

And at the election coming up in May, one third of the 57 councillors, 19, will be up for election.

But all that is set to change.

In May 2026, all 57 councillors will be up for election, and those elected will sit for four years.

The Local Government Boundary Commission, which will redraw the council ward boundaries, has launched a public consultation exercise.

Professor Colin Mellors, Chair of the Commission, said: “We want people in Swindon to help us.

“We are starting to draw up new wards for Swindon. 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.”

People can give their views via the website at www.lgbce.org.uk/all-reviews/swindon/feedback, or by email to reviews@lgbce.org.uk, and by post to The Review Officer (Swindon), LGBCE, PO Box 133, Blyth, NE24 9FE.

The commission is interested in views on which communities should be part of the same ward.

Speaking of the questions residents should consider, a spokesperson for the commission said: "What facilities do people share, such as parks, leisure centres or schools and shopping areas? What issues do neighbouring communities face that they have in common, such as high numbers of visitors or heavy traffic?

"Have there been new housing or commercial developments that have changed the focus of communities? And are there roads, rivers, railways or other features that people believe from strong boundaries between neighbourhoods?"

The ten-week consultation inviting proposals will run until March 18.