Parliamentary Boundary Commission proposes the Roundshaw Estate to become part of South Croydon (From Sutton Guardian)

Parliamentary Boundary Commission proposes the Roundshaw Estate to become part of South Croydon

11:10am Tuesday 16th October 2012 in News By Sophia Sleigh, Reporter

The Boundary Commission has proposed that the Roundshaw Estate should become part of South Croydon's parliamentary constituency.

The commission which reviews all Parliamentary constituency boundaries in England has announced sweeping changes across the country today.

However, the proposals are not as bad as originally feared by Carshalton and Wallington MP, Tom Brake.

Original proposals carved up Carshalton and Wallington and joined them with Purley, Kenley and Coulsdon.

However, the new proposals keep Carshalton and Wallington intact and join them with Coulsdon to make the constituency of Carshalton and Coulsdon.

The area of Beddington South which includes the Roundshaw Estate will join with the Croydon South cnstituency.

Carshalton and Wallington MP, Tom Brake, said: "It’s certainly a complete change from what they originally proposed.

"They have at least conserved the bulk of the constituency so I welcome it in that sense.

"The electorate of 78,814 is welcome because originally the range given was the maximum electorate.

"At least this time they have made it smaller so there is scope for more people to move in without moving the boundary area.

"I think this is a better one than the original proposal.

"Obviously I’m disappointed they have jettisoned Beddington South ward but of course it is really a rhetorical exercise – Nick Clegg has said he will not support these proposals.

"The current position is we do not support the plans. It would be very unlikely the vote will go through."

The commission has also proposed changes to the Sutton and Cheam constituency which would include St James and Old Malden wards.

Local MP, Paul Burstow, said: "The new proposals add Old Malden and St James from the Kingston and Surbiton Constituency of Lib Dem MP Ed Davey.

"In practice these proposals are not going ahead but if they did they are unlikely to dramatically change the political balance in the seat."

There will be a further round of consultations by the commission before the proposals have to be submitted to Parliament next October.

It is expected that they will face stiff opposition with Liberal Democrats - angered by Tory backbench rejection of Lords reform plans - vowing to vote against it.