THE borough of Halton could see both of its current parliamentary constituencies scrapped as part of the biggest electoral shake-up in years.

The Boundary Commission for England has announced the plans, which it said are aimed at making Parliament fairer by giving each MP roughly a similar number of voters.

Under the proposals, which could take effect from 2023, the electoral constituency of Halton – which is currently held by Labour’s Derek Twigg – would disappear altogether and be replaced by a new constituency of Widnes and Halewood.

The constituency of Weaver Vale – which includes parts of east Runcorn and is currently held by Labour’s Mike Amesbury, would also disappear, with part of it forming a new Runcorn and Helsby constituency, with the remainder of Weaver Vale going towards forming a new constituency of Northwich.

If approved, it would separate Widnes and Runcorn at the general election ballot box, although the borough of Halton itself would still continue to exist, and Halton Borough Council’s current makeup and council wards would not be impacted.

Mike Amesbury said: “These are the initial proposals by the independent Boundary Commission for England.

Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury (Wiki picture)

Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury (Wiki picture)

“There will now be an opportunity for key stakeholders and residents to have their say via a consultation.

“This will include regional public-facing meetings early next year organised by the commission.

“The Boundary Commission’s stated aim is to make Parliament fairer by ensuring each MP represents a roughly similar number of voters.

“The proposals will be finalised in 2023 and are due to be made into law in the latter part of that year.”

A spokeswoman for Derek Twigg said he was currently consulting with Mike Amesbury and other Labour colleagues on the proposals.

John Twigg - UK Parliament official portraits 2017.

John Twigg - UK Parliament official portraits 2017.

The changes would mark the first major overhaul of seat boundaries in England since 2010.

Unlike previous plans, the number of seats in the Commons would stay the same, but England would gain 10, with Wales losing eight and Scotland losing two. The Commission said this is to take into account population changes.

The initial proposals will now be subject to consultations and revisions.

Final recommendations are due by July 1, 2023, after which the government has four months to implement the plans. If approved, they will come into effect later that year.