District Electoral Areas Commissioner
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE GROUPING OF WARDS INTO DISTRICT ELECTORAL AREAS IN NORTHERN IRELAND
REPORT BY THE DISTRICT ELECTORAL AREAS COMMISSIONER
RICHARD H. MACKENZIE CB District Electoral Areas Commissioner
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE GROUPING OF WARDS INTO DISTRICT ELECTORAL AREAS IN NORTHERN IRELAND
REPORT BY THE DISTRICT ELECTORAL AREAS COMMISSIONER
RICHARD H. MACKENZIE CB
Presented to Parliament pursuant to Article 5 of The District Electoral Areas Commissioner (Northern Ireland) Order 1984 (S.I. 1984/360) (as amended by The Local Government (Boundaries) (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/1253 (N.I.8)); The District Electoral Areas Commissioner (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Order 2007 (S.I. 2007/612 (N.I.4)); The District Electoral Areas Commissioner (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/3016); The District Electoral Areas Commissioner (Northern Ireland) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/3074)). © Crown copyright 2013
You may re-use this information (excluding logos) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open Government Licence. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence or email [email protected]. Where we have identified any third-party copyright information, you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned. Any enquiries regarding this publication should be sent to us at [email protected] This publication is available for download at www.deac-ni.org Printed on paper containing 75% recycled fibre content minimum CONTENTS
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1. Introduction 2 2. Background 3 3. Procedure 4 4. Composition of District Electoral Areas 5 5. Representations and Public Inquiries 7 6. Antrim and Newtownabbey LGD 8 7. Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon LGD 10 8. Belfast LGD 13 9. Causeway Coast and Glens LGD 16 10. Derry and Strabane LGD 17 11. Fermanagh and Omagh LGD 18 12. Lisburn and Castlereagh LGD 20 13. Mid and East Antrim LGD 23 14. Mid Ulster LGD 26 15. Newry,Mourne and Down LGD 29 16. North Down and Ards LGD 31 17. Summary of Revisions to Provisional Recommendations 35 18. Final Recommendations 37 19. Conclusions 38 20. Acknowledgements 39
APPENDICES
1. Schedule of Final Recommendations 40 2. Assistant Commissioners, Assessors and Commissioner’s Secretariat 52 3. List of Representations 53
MAPS
1 1. INTRODUCTION
“...the grouping together of the wards… into electoral areas for the purpose of local government elections...”
(Article 2 (2) of the District Electoral Areas Commissioner (NI) Order 1984, as amended)
1.1 The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, The Rt. Hon. Theresa Villiers MP, appointed me as District Electoral Areas Commissioner for Northern Ireland with effect from 21 January 2013. My task was to make recommendations for the grouping together of wards in each of the eleven new local government districts into District Electoral Areas (“DEAs”) for the purpose of local government elections and to give a name to each electoral area.
1.2 The provisions concerning the appointment and function of the Commissioner, the procedures to be followed and the rules in accordance with which recommendations are to be made are contained in the District Electoral Areas Commissioner (Northern Ireland) Order 1984 (“1984 Order”), as amended by the District Electoral Areas Commissioner (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Orders of 2007 and 2009 and the District Electoral Areas Commissioner (Northern Ireland) Order 2012.
1.3 The 1984 Order (as amended) provides that the Commissioner may ask the Secretary of State to appoint one or more Assistant Commissioners to inquire into, and report on, such matters as the Commissioner thinks fit. At my request, the Secretary of State appointed five Assistant Commissioners to preside over a number of public inquiries. The names of the Assistant Commissioners are listed in Appendix 2.
1.4 The 1984 Order also designates three Assessors to provide advice and support to the Commissioner. They are the Registrar General of Births and Deaths in Northern Ireland, the Chief Survey Officer of Land and Property Services and the Chief Electoral Officer for Northern Ireland. The Assessors are also listed in Appendix 2.
1.5 To assist me, I had the support of a small Secretariat, led by the Secretary to the Commissioner, Liz Benson. I also had the assistance of professional and technical staff from Land and Property Services. The team members are listed in Appendix 2.
2 2. BACKGROUND
2.1 The last Review of District Electoral Areas was carried out in 1992 and was based on 26 local government districts and 582 wards. Following the submission of a Report to the Secretary of State by the then Commissioner, Dr. Maurice Hayes, a structure of 101 District Electoral Areas was established on 9 February 1993 under the terms of the District Electoral Areas (Northern Ireland) Order 1993 (S.I. 1993 No. 226).
2.2 On 22 June 2009, in my capacity as the then Local Government Boundaries Commissioner for Northern Ireland, I submitted my Final Report to the Department of the Environment, setting out recommendations for the boundaries and names of 11 new local government districts and for the number, boundaries and names of the wards into which each district was to be divided, in accordance with the Local Government (Boundaries) Act (Northern Ireland) 2008.
2.3 On 30 November 2012, the Department of the Environment made the Local Government (Boundaries) Order (NI) 2012 (SR 2012 No. 421) – the “2012 Order”. This Order gave effect, with modifications, to the recommendations of the Local Government Boundaries Commissioner. The modifications related to the boundary between the Belfast local government district and the Lisburn and Castlereagh local government district.
2.4 The names of the local government districts as contained in the 2012 Order are as follows:-
1. Antrim and Newtownabbey 2. Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon 3. Belfast 4. Causeway Coast and Glens 5. Derry and Strabane 6. Fermanagh and Omagh 7. Lisburn and Castlereagh 8. Mid and East Antrim 9. Mid Ulster 10. Newry, Mourne and Down 11. North Down and Ards.
2.5 The number of wards designated in the 2012 Order in relation to the Belfast local government district is 60; in Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon district and Newry, Mourne and Down district the number of wards is 41; and in the other eight districts the number of wards is 40. The 1984 Order requires that each DEA must consist of five, six or seven wards, and each area returns as many councillors as there are wards.
2.6 The current review is based on a reduction in the number of local government districts from 26 to 11 and in the number of wards from 582 to 462.
2.7 The electorate figures shown in Appendix 1 are taken from the Electoral Register as at December 2012.
3 3. PROCEDURE
3.1 The statutory procedure to be followed by the Commissioner involves the publication of Provisional Recommendations setting out proposed DEAs for each local government district and inviting written representations within an eight week consultation period. The proposed DEAs are based on the districts and wards established under the 2012 Order.
3.2 I published Provisional Recommendations on 2 May 2013 and invited written representations to be submitted by 27 June 2013.
3.3 30 representations were received and public inquiries into the grouping of the wards and their names were held in nine local government districts. Assistant Commissioners presided over these inquiries and provided me with reports setting out their conclusions and recommendations.
3.4 In drawing up my Final Recommendations, I have had regard to the written and oral representations received and to the conclusions and recommendations of the Assistant Commissioners.
3.5 This Report contains my Final Recommendations which I have submitted to the Secretary of State. The legislation provides that as soon as may be after the Commissioner has submitted a report, the Secretary of State shall lay the report before Parliament.
4 4. COMPOSITION OF DISTRICT ELECTORAL AREAS
Rules
4.1 Schedule 3 to the District Electoral Areas Commissioner (Northern Ireland) Order 1984 (the ‘1984 Order’) prescribes four rules in accordance with which recommendations of the Commissioner are to be made. These are:-
1. No ward shall be included partly in one electoral area and partly in another.
2. Each electoral area shall consist of not less than five, and not more than seven, wards.
3. Each ward in an electoral area shall have at least one boundary in common with another ward in that area, except where the ward consists of an island.
4. A name shall be given to each electoral area.
Method of Approach
4.2 The 1984 Order does not provide any guidance as to factors which could or should be taken into account in formulating proposals for DEAs or whether the number of wards to be included in any electoral area should be five, six or seven. In the absence of such guidance, I considered it reasonable to establish a range of factors which would inform my approach to the grouping of wards as DEAs.
4.3 The approach which I adopted was, where possible, to have regard to the following:-
the use of physical features such as loughs, estuaries, rivers, hill ranges, or major roads as DEA boundaries;
the creation of distinct urban and rural DEAs;
the inclusion of complete settlements within a DEA;
the creation of geographically compact DEAs;
the creation of DEAs where the ratio of electorate for each councillor is not more than 10% from the overall ratio for the district as a whole.
4.4 The statutory requirement that a DEA must contain five, six or seven wards is a constraint in the consideration of which factors can be applied in particular circumstances. It is not always possible to define distinct urban and rural DEAs or to avoid the division of a settlement. Furthermore, depending on local circumstances, some of these factors may be in conflict one with another, or one may have greater prominence than others in a particular locality. In composing my recommendations, therefore, I have made a judgement on the balance of these factors in light of the need to compose DEAs in accordance with the statutory requirement and having regard to the written and oral representations and the conclusions and recommendations of the Assistant Commissioners.
5 Existing DEA Framework
4.5 In my deliberations on the grouping of wards, I considered whether I should have regard to the existing DEA framework. I felt that it would be unreasonable to ignore this framework altogether, since it has been in place for many years. However, there has been a substantial change in the ward architecture of Northern Ireland as a result of the Local Government (Boundaries) Order (NI) 2012 with a reduction in the number of wards from 582 to 462. A replication of, or minimum change to, the existing framework, is not therefore possible although a broad similarity is evident in a number of places.
Names
4.6 As regards the naming of DEAs, I have used existing names where practicable. Where the difference between the old and new DEAs is significant, I have recommended a new name which I considered had a resonance with the locality concerned. I have changed a number of the names from those contained in my Provisional Recommendations as a result of representations received and the recommendations of Assistant Commissioners.
6 5 REPRESENTATIONS AND PUBLIC INQUIRIES
5.1 I published my Provisional Recommendations on 2 May 2013. The Report was distributed to all MPs, MLAs, district councils and their councillors, political parties and bodies designated under section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998. Copies were displayed at council offices, libraries, the Area Electoral Offices, the offices of the Electoral Commission and my own office. Written representations were invited within eight weeks with a closing date of 27 June 2013. I received 30 representations.
5.2 A number of the representations received were based on a misunderstanding of the role of the District Electoral Areas Commissioner. These included:-
objections to the number of local government districts;
proposals to amend the number of wards in a local government district;
proposals to adjust ward boundaries;
proposals to change the names of some wards.
These are matters which are beyond the remit of the District Electoral Areas Commissioner. The number of councils was established by the Local Government (Boundaries) Act (NI) 2008, and the number, names and boundaries of wards were settled by the Local Government (Boundaries) Order (Northern Ireland) 2012. The function of the Commissioner is to recommend which of those wards should be grouped together to form District Electoral Areas and to propose a name for each DEA.
5.3 After considering the representations received, I made arrangements to hold nine public inquiries which were presided over by Assistant Commissioners. Seven of these inquiries were mandated by the 1984 Order because representations had been received from a district council and/or a petition of not less than 100 electors had been received. Two inquiries were called at my discretion having regard to the representations received. I decided not to call inquiries in relation to representations received regarding two other districts, namely, Derry and Strabane and Causeway Coast and Glens.
5.4 I have given careful consideration to the written representations, the transcripts of the public inquiries and the reports of the Assistant Commissioners in formulating my Final Recommendations. The representations, transcripts and reports are available on my website – www.deac-ni.org.
7 6. ANTRIM AND NEWTOWNABBEY LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT
6.1 I received two written representations (available at www.deac-ni.org) in relation to this district.
6.2 The Democratic Unionist Party said that it was willing to accept the provisional proposals in relation to this district.
6.3 The Alliance Party expressed itself as content with four of the provisionally recommended DEAs but considered that there could be improvement in urban Newtownabbey. They proposed a number of changes to the grouping of wards in that locality on the basis of local ties and the current pattern of DEAs and suggested a number of changes to the names of DEAs.
6.4 They submitted that:-
Glebe ward should be included in the Sandyknowes DEA rather than Macedon DEA;
Mossley ward should be included in the Three Mile Water DEA rather than Sandyknowes DEA;
Carnmoney Hill ward should be included in the Three Mile Water DEA rather than Macedon DEA;
the provisionally recommended name of Dunsilly DEA should be changed to Antrim North West;
the provisionally recommended name of Antrim DEA should be changed to Antrim Town;
the provisionally recommended name of Airport DEA should be changed to Antrim South East;
the provisionally recommended name of Sandyknowes DEA should be changed to Antrim Line;
the provisionally recommended name of Three Mile Water DEA should be changed to University.
6.5 The SDLP said that it was not making a written submission in relation to this district.
6.6 The public inquiry (transcript available at www.deac-ni.org) to hear objections to my Provisional Recommendations was held on 17 September 2013 before Assistant Commissioner Paul Dougan in the Dunadry Inn, Templepatrick.
6.7 The following persons spoke at the inquiry and their submissions are summarised as follows:-
Sam Nelson, on behalf of the Alliance Party, accepted the Provisional Recommendations for the boundaries of the four northerly DEAs, namely, Dunsilly, Antrim, Airport and Ballyclare; in addition, he elucidated on the reasons set out in his Party’s written submission for a different delineation of the three southern
8 DEAs, namely, Three Mile Water, Macedon and Sandyknowes and for the proposed name changes for DEAs – see paragraph 6.4 above;
Councillor John Blair, Alliance Party (Antrim Line DEA, Newtownabbey Borough Council) agreed with the submission of his Party but in particular, he emphasised that the Glebe ward should be included in the same DEA as Glengormley village on the basis of local ties; he had no major issue with the Three Mile Water DEA name.
6.8 In his report (available at www.deac-ni.org) Assistant Commissioner Dougan set out his analysis of the written and oral representations and his conclusions and recommendations are as follows:-
Mossley ward should transfer from Sandyknowes DEA to Three Mile Water DEA;
Glebe ward should transfer from Macedon DEA to Sandyknowes DEA;
the name of the Sandyknowes DEA should be changed to Glengormley DEA;
no change should be made to the ward groupings and names of the other remaining DEAs.
6.9 With one small exception, I agree with the recommendations of Assistant Commissioner Dougan and have incorporated them in my Final Recommendations.
6.10 The exception relates to his recommendation that the name of the Sandyknowes DEA should be changed to Glengormley DEA.
6.11 I agree with the Assistant Commissioner that Glengormley would be an appropriate name for this DEA. However, one of the wards within this DEA is called Glengormley and under the “Naming Policy for UK Statistical Geographies” produced by the Office for National Statistics (June 2009), authorities are asked to refrain from using the same name in a hierarchy of administrative units. On this basis, I have decided to rename the DEA Glengormley Urban and this is reflected in my Final Recommendations.
9 7. ARMAGH, BANBRIDGE AND CRAIGAVON LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT
7.1 I received seven written representations (available at www.deac-ni.org) and one petition in relation to this district. I also received a letter from Banbridge District Council indicating that at a Council meeting it was agreed that any response should come from political parties and not from the Council.
7.2 The Democratic Unionist Party proposed that:-
Loughgall ward should be included in the Cusher DEA rather than Portadown DEA on the basis of local ties with Armagh city;
Waringstown ward should be transferred from the Lagan River DEA to the Lurgan DEA on the basis of the more intense development of the ward; in exchange, Magheralin ward should be transferred from the Lurgan DEA to the Lagan River DEA on the basis of the more rural nature of the ward.
7.3 The Ulster Unionist Party expressed its concern that the ward electoral averages were not evenly spread across all councils and asked for the matter to be reviewed. However, this is an issue which is outside my remit as Commissioner.
7.4 The SDLP proposed the exchange of the Gransha ward (from the Banbridge DEA) with the Gilford ward (from the Lagan River DEA) on the basis of local ties. The SDLP proposal was supported by a valid petition from the localities of Banbridge, Gransha, Gilford and Lawrencetown.
7.5 The Alliance Party expressed itself as broadly content with the recommendations.
7.6 The Upper Bann branch of Sinn Féin considered the Provisional Recommendations to be relatively balanced and fair but proposed that, on historical grounds, the Lagan River DEA should be called Clann Bhreasail or Clanbrassil.
7.7 Councillor Thomas O’Hanlon (SDLP Group Leader on Armagh City and District Council) expressed his concern that the settlement of Keady would, under the Provisional Recommendations, be split between two DEAs – namely Armagh and Cusher. He argued that all of Keady town should be located within a single DEA on the basis of local ties.
7.8 Michael Moriarty proposed the exchange of the Gransha ward (from the Banbridge DEA) with the Gilford ward (from the Lagan River DEA) on the basis of local ties and in order to preserve the former Knockiveagh DEA.
7.9 The public inquiry (transcript available at www.deac-ni.org) to hear objections to my Provisional Recommendations was held on 5 September 2013 before Assistant Commissioner Sarah Havlin in the Seagoe Hotel, Portadown.
7.10 The following persons spoke at the inquiry and their submissions are summarised as follows:-
Edward Hanna made a submission on behalf of Jeffrey Donaldson, MP and Brenda Hale, MLA (DUP) who wished to see Gransha ward transferred from Banbridge DEA to Lagan River DEA on grounds of local ties;
10 Brendan Curran, representing Sinn Féin, supported the Provisional Recommendations of the Commissioner in relation to this area; the Party proposed the name Clanbrassil for the DEA rather than Lagan River; his Party disagreed with the proposal of the DUP to switch the Magheralin and Waringstown wards and to move the Loughgall ward to the Cusher DEA;
Dolores Kelly, MLA, (Deputy Leader of the SDLP) and Councillor Joe Nelson (Craigavon Borough Council), drew attention to their written submission which proposed the exchange of the Gransha ward (from the Banbridge DEA) with the Gilford ward (from the Lagan River DEA) on the basis of local ties; the Party did not support the proposal of the DUP to move the Magheralin ward from the Lurgan DEA to Lagan River DEA and switch it with the Waringstown ward;
Councillor Carol Black (UUP, Banbridge District Council) supported the Provisional Recommendations;
Councillor Marie Hamilton (SDLP, Banbridge District Council) supported the transfer of Gransha ward to Lagan River DEA and the transfer of Gilford ward to Banbridge DEA;
Councillor John Hanna (UUP, Banbridge District Council) supported the Provisional Recommendation to include Gransha ward in the Banbridge DEA;
Councillor Arnold Hatch (UUP, Craigavon Borough Council) expressed his concern at the number of councillors for the district;
Jonathan Murphy (member of the public) considered that Gransha ward had more affinity with Rathfriland and Banbridge than with Dromore; he supported the Provisional Recommendations.
7.11 In her report (available at www.deac-ni.org) Assistant Commissioner Havlin set out her analysis of the written and oral representations and her conclusions and recommendations were:-
that there should be no change to the proposals as set out in the Provisional Recommendations either in terms of DEA boundaries or their names.
7.12 With one exception, I agree with the recommendations of Assistant Commissioner Havlin. The exception relates to the location of the Gilford and Gransha wards within certain DEAs.
7.13 Assistant Commissioner Havlin rightly points out the difficulty of using perceptions of community identity as a factor in delineating DEAs. However, in assessing the evidence, I consider that the written and oral representations in relation to the Gilford ward do support the contention that the villages of Gilford and Lawrencetown have a close affinity with, and are part of the hinterland of, Banbridge.
7.14 In my Provisional Recommendations I set out a number of factors (at paragraphs 3.6 and 3.8) to which I would have regard in the grouping of wards into DEAs. These included the creation of geographically compact DEAs and (where practical) regard to
11 the existing DEA framework. In considering these factors and the representations (written and oral) regarding the relationship of Gilford and Lawrencetown to Banbridge, I have concluded that I should change my provisional proposals by including the Gilford ward in the Banbridge DEA (instead of the Lagan River DEA) and my Final Recommendations reflect this change.
7.15 The transfer of the Gilford ward means that the Banbridge DEA would be comprised of eight wards which is outside the upper statutory limit for the number of wards in a DEA. I have considered the written and oral evidence in relation to the proposal to transfer the Gransha ward from the Banbridge DEA to the Lagan River DEA and have concluded that, while the arguments are finely balanced, this change should be made not only on its own merits, but in order to bring the Banbridge DEA within the statutory limit. My Final Recommendations reflect this change.
7.16 Apart from this transfer of the Gilford and Gransha wards, my Final Recommendations are the same as my Provisional Recommendations in relation to this local government district.
12 8. BELFAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT
8.1 I received seven written representations (available at www.deac-ni.org) and one petition in relation to this district.
8.2 The Democratic Unionist Party proposed that:-
on grounds of local identity, the position of peace line access points and the location of the Royal Victoria Hospital, the Court DEA should include the Falls ward, but not the Clonard ward; this change should be balanced by the transfer of the Clonard ward to the Black Mountain DEA and the transfer of the Collin Glen ward to the Collin DEA.
the provisionally recommended name of Titanic DEA should be changed to “Victoria” to reflect the name already in use.
8.3 The Ulster Unionist Party expressed its opposition to the proposals for the new Belfast local government district and to the creation of a local government district combining the existing Lisburn and Castlereagh Councils. However, this is a matter which is outside my remit.
8.4 The SDLP proposed the transfer of the Beechmount ward from Blackmountain DEA to Court DEA on the basis of local ties with Clonard and Falls and the natural divide formed by the Blackwater River and industrial grounds. The SDLP proposal was supported by a valid petition.
8.5 The Alliance Party expressed itself as broadly content with the recommendations.
8.6 Comhairle Phobail na bhFál (Falls Community Council) expressed its disappointment that the most recent census data was not taken into account in determining the DEAs. It postulated that demographic changes over the next 10 years would lead to an increasing discrepancy between the number of council seats between West and East Belfast in favour of Unionism. It proposed that in order to address the deviations, the following changes should be made:-
transfer Rosetta ward from Lisnasharragh DEA to Botanic DEA making it a six seat DEA taking into account the community, sporting and ecclesiastical connections between the Rosetta and Ormeau wards;
transfer the Ravenhill ward from Lisnasharragh DEA to Titanic DEA making it a seven seat DEA taking account of population growth around the Titanic quarter and Lagan developments;
transfer the Shandon ward from the Ormiston DEA to the Lisnasharragh DEA making them a five seat DEA and a six seat DEA respectively.
8.7 The Markets Development Association welcomed the changes to the DEAs but expressed concern that consideration of the most recent census data was not taken into account and asked that the determination of DEAs be reconsidered.
13 8.8 Alex Maskey, MLA (Sinn Féin) proposed that:-
Rosetta ward should transfer from Lisnasharragh DEA to Botanic DEA;
Ravenhill ward should transfer from Lisnasharragh DEA to Titanic DEA;
Shandon ward should transfer from Ormiston DEA to Lisnasharragh DEA.
8.9 The public inquiry (transcript available at www.deac-ni.org) to hear objections to my Provisional Recommendations was held on 17 September 2013 before Assistant Commissioner Eileen Brady in the Hilton Hotel, Belfast.
8.10 The following persons spoke at the inquiry and their submissions are summarised as follows:-
Fra McCann, MLA (Sinn Féin) submitted that the Falls and Clonard wards should be in the same DEA and not in separate DEAs as proposed by the DUP; he disagreed with the proposal to include the Beechmount ward in the Court DEA;
Alex Maskey, MLA (Sinn Féin) drew attention to his written submission and in particular his concern that the Census of 2011 did not appear to have been taken into account by the Commissioner;
Councillors Chris McGimpsey (UUP) and Denny Vitty (DUP) (Castlereagh Borough Council) and Stephen Reid (Chief Executive of the Council) had been mandated by the Council to respond to the written submission of Mr Maskey and disagreed with it; Mr Reid confirmed that his Council supported the Provisional Recommendations;
Councillor Colin Keenan (SDLP, Belfast City Council), on behalf of the signatories of the petition, submitted that Beechmount ward should be part of the Court DEA rather than the Black Mountain DEA on the basis of local ties;
Ciaran Beattie (Beechmount Residents’ Association) disagreed with the submission of Councillor Keenan and submitted that Beechmount ward should form part of the Black Mountain DEA as proposed in the Provisional Recommendations;
Fra Hamilton (Beechmount Residents’ Association) considered that Beechmount ward was not associated with the Falls and Clonard wards;
Harry Connolly (Upper Springfield Federation of Residents’ Associations) submitted that people from the Ballymurphy ward had local ties with people in the Beechmount ward; he supported the Provisional Recommendations;
Sean Quinn (Secretary of Blackie Community Centre) considered that Beechmount ward should be included in the Black Mountain DEA as proposed in the Provisional Recommendations;
Breige Brownlee (Chairperson of St. James’s Community Forum) disagreed with the submission of the SDLP and supported the Provisional Recommendations;
14 Claire Canavan (Clonard Residents’ Association) said that her Association endorsed the proposal in the Provisional Recommendations that the Falls and Clonard wards should form part of the Court DEA; the Association disagreed with the proposal of the DUP that the Clonard ward should be transferred out of the Court DEA;
Terry Quinn ( Development Worker for Falls Residents’ Association) spoke of the close links between the Falls and Clonard wards;
Gerry McConville (Director – Falls Community Council) elucidated on the written representation of the Council – see Para. 8.6 above – and confirmed their proposal for amendments to the Provisional Recommendations; they did not support the proposal to include Beechmount ward in the Court DEA nor the proposal to exclude the Clonard ward from the same DEA;
James Irwin (Markets Development Association) agreed with the submission of Gerry McConville;
Sean Lennon (Chairperson – Lenadoon Neighbourhood Partnership and Glen Collin Residents’ Association) disagreed with the proposal of the DUP to move Collin Glen ward from Black Mountain DEA to Collin DEA;
Peter Lynch, on behalf of Tar Annall, a west Belfast community group, supported the Provisional Recommendations.
8.11 In her report (available at www.deac-ni.org) Assistant Commissioner Brady set out her analysis of the written and oral representations and her conclusions and recommendations were:-
that there should be no change to the proposals as set out in the Provisional Recommendations either in terms of DEA boundaries or their names.
8.12 I agree with the recommendations of Assistant Commissioner Brady and my Final Recommendations are the same as my Provisional Recommendations in relation to this local government district.
15 9. CAUSEWAY COAST AND GLENS LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT
9.1 I received two written representations (available at www.deac-ni.org) in relation to this district.
9.2 The Democratic Unionist Party said that it was willing to accept the provisional proposals in relation to this district.
9.3 The Alliance Party expressed itself as broadly content with the recommendations.
9.4 The SDLP said that it was not making a written submission in relation to this district.
9.5 As I received no objections in relation to this district, it was therefore unnecessary to cause a public inquiry to be held. My Final Recommendations are the same as my Provisional Recommendations in relation to this local government district.
16 10. DERRY AND STRABANE LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT
10.1 I received five written representations (available at www.deac-ni.org) in relation to this district.
10.2 The Democratic Unionist Party said that it was willing to accept the provisional proposals in relation to this district.
10.3 The Ulster Unionist Party noted that the proposed DEAs in the former Strabane District Council area were “under quota”.
10.4 The Alliance Party expressed itself as broadly content with the recommendations.
10.5 Both the Creggan Neighbourhood Partnership and the Bogside and Brandywell Initiative agreed with all the Provisional Recommendations with the exception of the name Rosemount DEA. They said that very little of the new DEA was known as Rosemount, and they suggested that a more suitable name could be Edenballymore.
10.6 The SDLP said that it was not making a written submission in relation to this district.
10.7 I took the view that it was not necessary to cause a public inquiry to be held into the question of the name of one DEA.
10.8 I accept the views of the two local community groups in relation to the proposed DEA name of Rosemount. However, while I acknowledge their views about the name Edenballymore, I am not persuaded that it has such a resonance as to define the DEA.
10.9 I have investigated further as regards names in this part of the City, and I understand that The Moor is commonly used in the locality. I recommend therefore that Rosemount be replaced by The Moor as the name of the DEA. Apart from this change, my Final Recommendations are the same as my Provisional Recommendations in relation to this local government district.
17 11. FERMANAGH AND OMAGH LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT
11.1 I received eight written representations (available at www.deac-ni.org) in relation to this district.
11.2 Fermanagh District Council objected to the reconfiguration of the Enniskillen DEA and Erne North DEA which resulted in the loss of the current Devenish ward, the splitting of Hillview Road between the two DEAs and the removal of urban estates from the Enniskillen DEA. The Council also suggested changes to ward boundaries in Tempo and Lisbellaw which largely share the rural identity of many parts of Erne North DEA. The Council noted a possible impact on deprivation measures but such matters are outside my remit.
11.3 The Democratic Unionist Party said that it was willing to accept the provisional proposals in relation to this district.
11.4 The Ulster Unionist Party expressed its concern about the composition of some wards within Fermanagh and its opposition to the amalgamation of Fermanagh and Omagh Councils. However, these are matters which fall outside my remit.
11.5 The Alliance Party expressed itself as broadly content with the recommendations.
11.6 Devenish Partnership Forum expressed its opposition to the location of the local communities of Hillview and Kilmacormick II in the Erne North DEA. It submitted a valid petition and three letters from local community associations.
11.7 Kilmacormick I & Cornagrade Community Associations objected to the Kilmacormick II and Hillview areas being located outside the Enniskillen DEA.
11.8 Kilmacormick II Community Association also objected to Kilmacormick II housing estate being taken out of the Enniskillen DEA.
11.9 Hillview Residents’ Association objected to the residents of Hillview Estate being split between different DEAs.
11.10 The SDLP said that it was not making a written submission in relation to this district.
11.11 The public inquiry (transcript available at www.deac-ni.org) to hear objections to my Provisional Recommendations was held on 29 August 2013 before Assistant Commissioner Sarah Havlin in the Manor House, Killadeas.
11.12 The following persons spoke at the inquiry and their submissions are summarised as follows:-
Tom Elliott, MLA, representing the Ulster Unionist Party, did not support the inclusion of the Lisnarrick ward in the Enniskillen DEA and expressed himself as content with the Provisional Recommendations;
Sam Foster, representing the Enniskillen Ulster Unionist Party, agreed with the submission of Mr. Elliott and expressed his opposition to any transfer of the wards of Tempo and Lisbellaw;
18 Councillor Rosemary Barton (Ulster Unionist Councillor for Erne North) expressed support for the position of the Ulster Unionist Party;
Councillor Frank Britton, representing the SDLP, submitted that the Lisnarrick ward should be transferred to the Enniskillen DEA from the Erne North DEA on the basis of local ties;
Rosemary Flanagan, representing the SDLP, reinforced the submission of Councillor Britton;
Brendan Farry, representing the Hillview Residents’ Association, and Roisin McCusker, representing the Devenish Partnership, submitted that the Lisnarrick ward should be transferred to the Enniskillen DEA from the Erne North DEA on the basis of local ties; in compensation, the ward of Tempo should be transferred from Enniskillen DEA to Erne North DEA;
Councillor Debbie Coyle (Sinn Féin Councillor from Enniskillen) agreed with the submission of Roisin McCusker;
Rosemary Johnston (Hillview Residents’ Association) agreed with the submission of Brendan Farry and Roisin McCusker.
John McKinney (Kilmacormick II) also agreed with Rosin McCusker and Brendan Farry.
11.13 In her report (available at www.deac-ni.org) Assistant Commissioner Havlin set out her analysis of the written and oral representations and her conclusions and recommendations were as follows:-
that the Lisnarrick ward should be transferred from the proposed Erne North DEA to the proposed Enniskillen DEA;
that the Tempo ward should be transferred from the proposed Enniskillen DEA to the proposed Erne North DEA;
that there should be no change to the names of the DEAs as proposed in the Provisional Recommendations.
11.14 I agree with the recommendations of Assistant Commissioner Havlin and have incorporated them in my Final Recommendations.
19 12. LISBURN AND CASTLEREAGH LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT
12.1 I received seven written representations (available at www.deac-ni.org) and one petition in relation to this district.
12.2 Lisburn City Council expressed its agreement with the provisional recommendations for the boundaries of the DEAs. However, the Council proposed that the provisionally recommended names of two DEAs – namely, Culcavy and Boardmills – should be changed to Downshire West and Downshire East on historical grounds.
12.3 Castlereagh Borough Council expressed its agreement with the provisional recommendations for the DEAs. However, the Council proposed that the names of two DEAs – namely, Four Winds and Castlereagh – should be changed to Castlereagh South and Castlereagh East as more accurate descriptors of the areas concerned.
12.4 The Democratic Unionist Party said that it was willing to accept the provisional proposals for the DEA boundaries in relation to this district but proposed a number of name changes for reasons of local identity, namely:-
the provisionally recommended name of Culcavy DEA should be changed to Downshire West;
the provisionally recommended name of Boardmills DEA should be changed to Downshire East;
the provisionally recommended name of Four Winds DEA should be changed to Castlereagh South;
the provisionally recommended name of Castlereagh DEA should be changed to Castlereagh East or Castlereagh Hills.
12.5 The Ulster Unionist Party expressed its opposition to the creation of a local government district combining the existing Lisburn and Castlereagh Councils. However, this is a matter which is outside my remit.
12.6 The SDLP (supported by a valid petition) argued that, since Lisburn City dominated the local government district, this should be the starting point. The Party proposed that both of the urban Lisburn DEAs should be extended from six to seven wards and that there should be one less DEA. Their proposal is as follows:-
transfer White Mountain ward from Killultagh DEA to Lisburn North DEA;
transfer Blaris ward from Culcavy DEA to Lisburn South DEA;
transfer Moira and Lagan wards from Culcavy DEA to Killultagh DEA;
transfer Maze and Hillsborough wards from Culcavy DEA to Boardmills DEA – leading to the elimination of the proposed Culcavy DEA;
rename the Boardmills DEA as Downshire DEA.
20 12.7 The SDLP expressed itself content with the Castlereagh DEAs.
12.8 The Alliance Party expressed itself as broadly content with the recommendations, but proposed a number of name changes, namely:-
the provisionally recommended name of Four Winds DEA should be changed to Castlereagh South;
the provisionally recommended name of Castlereagh DEA should be changed to Castlereagh East.
12.9 Michael Moriarty proposed a reconfiguration of the Lisburn wards as follows to reflect the existing DEA structure:-
Killultagh DEA to comprise the wards of Stoneyford, Glenavy, Ballinderry, Maghaberry, Moira and Lagan;
Boardmills DEA to comprise the wards of Dromara, Ballymacbrennan, Ravernet, Hillhall, Drumbo, Hillsborough and Maze ;
Lisburn South DEA to comprise the wards of Blaris, Ballymacash, Ballymacoss, Knockmore, Lagan Valley, Old Warren and Lisnagarvey;
Lisburn North DEA to comprise the wards of White Mountain, Derryaghy, Magheralave, Lambeg, Wallace Park, Harmony Hill and Hilden.
This proposal would mean a reduction in the number of DEAs in the district from seven to six.
12.10 The public inquiry (transcript available at www.deac-ni.org) to hear objections to my Provisional Recommendations was held on 9 September 2013 before Assistant Commissioner Eileen Brady in the Ramada Plaza Hotel, Belfast.
12.11 The following persons spoke at the inquiry and their submissions are summarised as follows:-
Conor Quinn, on behalf of the Lisburn Branch of the SDLP, confirmed the proposals contained in their written submission (see Para. 12.6 above) and explained the reasons therefor;
Councillor Patrick Catney (SDLP Councillor in Killultagh DEA, Lisburn City Council) supported the submission of Conor Quinn and in particular that Moira ward should form part of the Killultagh DEA;
Stephen Reid (Chief Executive of Castlereagh Borough Council) made a statement in support of the written representation made by his council.
21 12.12 In her report (available at www.deac-ni.org) Assistant Commissioner Brady set out her analysis of the written and oral representations and her conclusions and recommendations were:-
that there should be no change to the DEA boundary proposals contained in the Provisional Recommendations, but that the provisionally named Culcavy DEA should be renamed Downshire West and the provisionally named Boardmills DEA should be renamed Downshire East.
12.13 With one exception, I agree with the recommendations of Assistant Commissioner Brady. The exception relates to the proposed DEA names in the Provisional Recommendations of Castlereagh and Four Winds.
12.14 The Chief Executive of Castlereagh Borough Council made a statement at the public inquiry indicating that his Council had unanimously agreed the terms of its written submission at a special meeting – see 12.3 above. The DUP and the Alliance Party made the same proposal and I note that there were no counter arguments raised at the inquiry.
12.15 I consider that the balance of argument lies in favour of change and I have decided therefore that Castlereagh DEA should be renamed Castlereagh East DEA and Four Winds DEA should be renamed Castlereagh South DEA and this change is reflected in my Final Recommendations.
12.16 Except for the name changes of the DEAs noted above, my Final Recommendations are the same as my Provisional Recommendations in relation to this local government district.
22 13. MID AND EAST ANTRIM LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT
13.1 I received five written representations (available at www.deac-ni.org) in relation to this district.
13.2 Larne Borough Council proposed that the provisionally recommended names of Larne Lough and Coast Road DEAs should be changed to Larne South and Larne North to reflect the identity of the town in the new local government configuration.
13.3 The Democratic Unionist Party said that it was willing to accept the provisional proposals for the DEA boundaries in relation to this district but proposed a name change, namely:-
the provisionally recommended name of Coast Road DEA should be changed to Larne Coast Road or Larne North and Coast Road to reflect the identity of the town in the new local government configuration.
13.4 The Alliance Party proposed that in order to reflect community links and the existing pattern of boundaries,
the wards of Academy and Galgorm should transfer from the Bannside DEA to the Ballymena DEA;
the wards of Ballee & Harryville and Ballykeel should transfer from Ballymena DEA to Braid DEA;
the ward of Kirkinriola should transfer from Braid DEA to Bannside DEA.
13.5 The Alliance Party East Antrim Constituency Association proposed that the name of the Maidens ward should be changed to Maidens View, Laharna or Black Cave. However, the names of wards were settled by the Local Government (Boundaries) Order (NI) 2012 and any change in a ward name is outside my remit.
13.6 Michael Moriarty noted that the Provisional Recommendations split the towns of Larne and Carrickfergus between DEAs and proposed a reconfiguration of the DEAs to bring “all of both towns within one DEA”. His proposal would reduce the number of DEAs in this part of the district from four to three. His proposed reconfiguration is as follows:-
transfer the wards of Curran & Inver and Kilwaughter from Larne Lough DEA to the Coast Road DEA;
transfer the wards of Kilroot and Victoria from Carrick Castle DEA to Larne Lough DEA;
transfer the ward of Woodburn from Knockagh DEA to Larne Lough DEA;
transfer the wards of Castle, Boneybefore and Love Lane from Carrick Castle DEA to Knockagh DEA – which would have the effect of eliminating the Carrick Castle DEA.
13.7 He proposed an alternative to the composition of the Knockagh DEA, namely, that it should comprise the wards of Burleigh Hill, Sunnylands, Boneybefore, Castle, Love Lane and Victoria which would, in his view, create a DEA encompassing the town of
23 Carrickfergus. This would mean that the Larne Lough DEA would then comprise the wards of Islandmagee, Ballycarry and Glynn, Whitehead South, Kilroot, Gortalee, Woodburn and Greenisland.
13.8 In relation to Ballymena, Mr Moriarty proposed that the ward of Academy should be transferred from Bannside DEA into Ballymena DEA with the ward of Ballee and Harryville being transferred from Ballymena DEA to Braid DEA.
13.9 The SDLP said that it was not making a written submission in relation to this district.
13.10 The public inquiry (transcript available at www.deac-ni.org) to hear objections to my Provisional Recommendations was held on 5 September 2013 before Assistant Commissioner Patrick Good, QC in the Ross Park Hotel, Kells.
13.11 The following persons spoke at the inquiry and their submissions are summarised as follows:-
Councillor James McClean (Ballymena Borough Council) representing the Ulster Unionist Party, expressed the opposition of his Party to the 11 council model but his Party at a local level supported the Provisional Recommendations of the Commissioner in respect of the wards of the proposed Ballymena DEA; he was opposed to the transfer of the Ballee and Harryville ward to the Braid DEA and the transfer of Kirkinriola ward to Bannside DEA;
Roy McCune, Chair of the East Antrim Ulster Unionist Party, expressed his opposition to the 11 council model; he also indicated his concern that none of the wards in Carrickfergus was named Carrick;
Eugene Reid, Chair of the Ballymena Branch of the SDLP, considered that the ward of Academy should be transferred from Bannside DEA into Ballymena DEA on the basis that Academy could not be regarded as a rural ward and was better placed in an urban DEA; he also proposed that the ward of Ballee and Harryville should be transferred from Ballymena DEA to Braid DEA;
Philip Burnside, Chair of the Alliance Party North Antrim Constituency, endorsed the written submission of his Party – namely, that the wards of Academy and Galgorm should transfer from the Bannside DEA to the Ballymena DEA; the wards of Ballee and Harryville and Ballykeel should transfer from Ballymena DEA to Braid DEA; and the ward of Kirkinriola should transfer from Braid DEA to Bannside DEA.
Keith James Turner, Chair of the Kells and Connor Community Improvements Association, supported the Provisional Recommendations in so far as the Kells ward was located in the Braid DEA.
13.12 In his report (available at www.deac-ni.org) Assistant Commissioner Good set out his analysis of the written and oral representations and his conclusions and recommendations were as follows:-
that the Academy ward should be transferred from the proposed Bannside DEA to the proposed Ballymena DEA;
24 that the Ballee and Harryville ward should be transferred from the proposed Ballymena DEA to the proposed Braid DEA;
that there should be no change to the ward groupings in the Provisional Recommendations in respect of the Knockagh, Carrick Castle, Coast Road and Larne Lough DEAs;
that there should be no change to the names of the DEAs as proposed in the Provisional Recommendations.
13.13 I agree with the recommendations of Assistant Commissioner Good and have incorporated them in my Final Recommendations.
25 14. MID ULSTER LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT
14.1 I received seven written representations (available at www.deac-ni.org) in relation to this district.
14.2 The Chief Executive of Cookstown District Council proposed an alternative DEA model, in relation to the central part of the district, to that contained in the Provisional Recommendations on the basis that this better reflected existing community and geographical ties. The reconfiguration is associated with revised DEA names. The Chief Executive proposed some new ward names but these have already been settled under the terms of the Local Government (Boundaries) Order (NI) 2012. The proposed revised model is as follows:-
Lower Sperrins DEA (new name) comprising the wards of:- Donaghmore Draperstown Lissan Oaklands Pomeroy
Cookstown DEA comprising the wards of:- Cookstown East Cookstown South Cookstown West Loughry Stewartstown
Loughshore DEA (new name) comprising the wards of:- Ardboe Ballymaguigan Coagh The Loup Washing Bay
14.3 The Democratic Unionist Party said that it was willing to accept the provisional proposals in relation to this district.
14.4 The Alliance Party expressed itself as broadly content with the recommendations.
14.5 Sunnyside Community Association considered that the name Upperlands did not reflect the locality to the north of the district and proposed Carntogher as an alternative, being a well known local mountain landscape.
14.6 The South Derry Cultural & Heritage Society expressed their support for the Provisional Recommendations.
14.7 Michael Moriarty proposed a significant reconfiguration of the DEA structure as contained in the Provisional Recommendations to create more distinct urban and rural DEAs and the inclusion of complete settlements in a DEA. His proposal would reduce the number of DEAs from seven to six and is as follows:-
transfer the ward of Donaghmore from Torrent DEA to Clogher Valley DEA;
26 transfer the wards of Coalisland North and Coalisland South from Torrent DEA to Dungannon DEA;
transfer the wards of Killyman and Moy from Dungannon DEA to Torrent DEA;
transfer the ward of Coagh from Cookstown DEA to Torrent DEA;
transfer the ward of The Loup from Magherafelt DEA to Torrent DEA;
transfer the ward of Lissan from Magherafelt DEA to Cookstown DEA;
transfer the wards of Ballymaguigan, Bellaghy and Castledawson from Moyola DEA to Magherafelt DEA
transfer the wards of Draperstown and Tobermore from Moyola DEA to Upperlands DEA.
Mr. Moriarty’s proposals mean the elimination of the Moyola DEA as contained in the Provisional Recommendations.
14.8 Councillor Barry Monteith proposed that Castlecaulfield ward should transfer from Clogher Valley DEA to Dungannon DEA on grounds of local ties.
14.9 The SDLP said that it was not making a written submission in relation to this district.
14.10 The public inquiry (transcript available at www.deac-ni.org) to hear objections to my Provisional Recommendations was held on 9 September 2013 before Assistant Commissioner Paul Dougan in the Glenavon Hotel, Cookstown.
14.11 The following persons spoke at the inquiry and their submissions are summarised as follows:-
Francie Molloy, MP for Mid Ulster representing Sinn Féin, supported the proposals in the Provisional Recommendations. He said that the proposals of Cookstown District Council were a submission from the officers of the Council and were not a corporate decision of the Council; he disagreed with the submission of the officials and of Michael Moriarty; and with the proposal to include Castlecaulfield ward in Dungannon DEA on the basis that there was a natural break between the ward and the town of Dungannon; he supported the proposal to change the name of Upperlands DEA to Carntogher in recognition of Carntogher Mountain which overlooks the area;
Councillor Barry Monteith (Independent, Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council) reinforced the views which he had expressed in his written representation which proposed the inclusion of the Castlecaulfield ward in Dungannon DEA;
Councillor Sean McGuigan (Sinn Féin, Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council) proposed a reconfiguration of Dungannon DEA;
Councillor Sean McPeake (Sinn Féin, Magherafelt District Council) supported the proposal to change the name of Upperlands DEA to Carntogher;
27 Councillor Cáthal Mallaghan (Sinn Féin, Cookstown District Council) supported the proposal to change the name of Upperlands DEA to Carntogher;
Councillor Kate McEldowney (Sinn Fein, Magherafelt District Council) supported the proposal to change the name of Upperlands DEA to Carntogher;
Linda Dillon (Sinn Féin) supported the Provisional Recommendations;
Ivor Paisley (Director of Corporate and Operational Services – Cookstown District Council) indicated that the Council’s submission – see Para 14.2 above – was made prior to the establishment of the Statutory Transition Committees and would not now reflect the view of the council; he said that the Council is now generally content in terms of the overall recommendations for the new Mid Ulster District;
Barry Murphy on behalf of the South Derry Cultural & Historical Society welcomed the Provisional Recommendations and queried the submission of Cookstown District Council; his Society supported the submission of Sunnyside Residents in relation their proposal to change the name of Upperlands DEA to Carntogher after the local mountain;
Gabhán McFalone, Secretary of the Sunnyside Community Association, Maghera, proposed that the name of Upperlands DEA should be changed to Carntogher after the local mountain; this view was supported by James Glass from the Association;
Oliver Molloy (Sinn Féin) supported the submission of the Sunnyside Community Association.
14.12 In his report (available at www.deac-ni.org) Assistant Commissioner Dougan set out his analysis of the written and oral representations and his conclusions and recommendations were as follows:-
there should be no change to the ward groupings of the DEAs as proposed in the Provisional Recommendations;
the name of the Upperlands DEA should be changed to Carntogher DEA; the names of the other DEAs should be as proposed in the Provisional Recommendations.
14.13 I agree with the recommendations of Assistant Commissioner Dougan and, apart from the change in the name from Upperlands DEA to Carntogher DEA, my Final Recommendations are the same as my Provisional Recommendations in relation to this local government district.
28 15. NEWRY, MOURNE AND DOWN LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT
15.1 I received six written representations (available at www.deac-ni.org) in relation to this district.
15.2 Margaret Ritchie, MP (SDLP) sought clarification as to whether, during the DEA review, there would be a re-alignment of the boundaries in relation to a number of public services. This query was dealt with by correspondence from my Office which indicated that this matter was outside the remit of the Commissioner.
15.3 The Democratic Unionist Party said that it was willing to accept the provisional proposals in relation to this district.
15.4 The Ulster Unionist Party made a number of proposals for the transfer of certain wards on the basis of local ties. These are as follows:-
transfer Ballynahinch ward from Rowallane DEA to Slieve Croob DEA;
transfer Quoile ward from Downpatrick DEA to Rowallane DEA;
transfer Ballydugan ward from Slieve Croob DEA to Downpatrick DEA;
transfer the wards of Tollymore, Donard and Murlough from the Mournes DEA to Slieve Croob DEA;
transfer Rostrevor ward from Crotlieve DEA to the Mournes DEA.
The Party also proposed the transfer of the housing areas of Carnbane Gardens and Craigmore from the proposed Newry DEA to the proposed Slieve Gullion DEA. However, these areas lie within the Whitecross ward which is already part of the proposed Slieve Gullion DEA. The Party also proposed the transfer of the housing area of Shandon Park from the proposed Newry DEA to the proposed Slieve Gullion DEA. However, this would involve an amendment to ward boundaries which is outside my remit.
15.5 The Alliance Party argued that the Mourne Mountains should be used to separate DEAs rather than, as in the Provisional Recommendations, to be the focus of a DEA. Their proposals are as follows:-
transfer Rostrevor ward from Crotlieve DEA to The Mournes DEA (renamed Mourne);
create a new Newcastle DEA comprising the wards of Donard, Murlough, Tollymore, Dundrum, Castlewellan and Ballyward;
transfer Ballydugan ward from Slieve Croob DEA to Downpatrick DEA;
transfer Drumaness ward from Slieve Croob DEA (which disappears) to Rowallane DEA.
15.6 Councillor Patrick Clarke (Alliance Party) from Down District Council opposed the reconfiguration of DEAs which divides Newcastle from its natural hinterland of Castlewellan and Dundrum and links it with the other side of the Mourne Mountains.
29 15.7 Michael Moriarty proposed that the ward of Bessbrook should be transferred from the Slieve Gullion DEA to the Newry DEA since in his view it formed part of the Newry urban area and was not of a rural character like the other Slieve Gullion wards.
15.8 The SDLP said that it was not making a written submission in relation to this district.
15.9 The public inquiry (transcript available at www.deac-ni.org) to hear objections to my Provisional Recommendations was held on 12 September 2013 before Assistant Commissioner Paul Dougan in the Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle.
15.10 The following persons spoke at the inquiry and their submissions are summarised as follows:-
Ryan Morgan, representing Sinn Féin, spoke in favour of the Provisional Recommendations and opposed the proposal of the Alliance Party to transfer the Rostrevor ward from the Crotlieve DEA to The Mournes DEA;
Councillor Carmel O’Boyle, (SDLP, Down District Council) on behalf of Margaret Ritchie, MP, asked the Commissioner to address issues of co-terminosity with other services in delineating DEA boundaries; on behalf of the SDLP she spoke in favour of the Provisional Recommendations;
Patrick Fitzpatrick (member of SDLP) spoke in support of Councillor O’Boyle and of the Provisional Recommendations;
Berkley Farr, supported by David Griffin, representing the Alliance Party, elaborated on the written representation submitted by the Party at an earlier date objecting to a number of the Provisional Recommendations, and in particular urging the establishment of a new Newcastle DEA – see Para. 15.5 above;
Councillor Patrick Clarke (Alliance Party, Down District Council) spoke to confirm and elaborate on his written submission, and support the Alliance Party’s proposal – see Para.15.6 above.
15.11 In his report (available at www.deac-ni.org) Assistant Commissioner Dougan set out his analysis of the written and oral representations and his conclusions and recommendations were:-
that there should be no change to the boundaries or names of the DEAs as set out in the Provisional Recommendations.
15.12 I agree with the recommendations of Assistant Commissioner Dougan and my Final Recommendations are the same as my Provisional Recommendations in relation to this local government district.
30 16. NORTH DOWN AND ARDS LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISTRICT
16.1 I received seven written representations (available at www.deac-ni.org) in relation to this district.
16.2 Ards Borough Council proposed that the provisionally recommended name of Lisbane DEA should be changed to Comber DEA to reflect the name of the largest settlement in the area.
16.3 The Democratic Unionist Party said that it was willing to accept the provisional proposals for the DEA boundaries in relation to this district but proposed a number of name changes for reasons of local identity, namely:-
the provisionally recommended name of Craigantlet DEA should be changed to Holywood and Clandeboye;
the provisionally recommended name of Copeland DEA should be changed to Bangor East and Donaghadee;
the provisionally recommended name of Lisbane DEA should be changed to Nendrum.
16.4 The Ulster Unionist Party expressed itself as generally content with the Provisional Recommendations but expressed concern at the splitting of the village of Millisle between two DEAs and asked for the matter to be reviewed.
16.5 The Alliance Party indicated two potential models for the North Down and Ards DEA boundaries. The first is a modification of the Provisional Recommendations and their proposal is as follows:-
transfer the Loughries ward from Copeland DEA to Ards Peninsula DEA in order to keep all of the settlement of Millisle in one DEA;
the provisionally recommended name of Craigantlet DEA should be changed to Holywood and Clandeboye;
the provisionally recommended name of Copeland DEA should be changed to Bangor East and Donaghadee;
the provisionally recommended name of Bangor DEA should be changed to Bangor Central.
16.6 The second model proposed a more significant reconfiguration of the DEAs in the district and a reduction in the number of DEAs from seven to six. The proposal is as follows:-
create a DEA called Holywood and Bangor West comprising the five wards of the provisionally recommended DEA of Craigantlet plus the wards of Rathmore and Kilcooley – seven wards;
create a DEA called Bangor Central comprising the wards of Bryansburn, Rathgael, Silverstream, Harbour, Castle, Ballyholme and Broadway – seven wards;
31 create a DEA called East Bangor and Groomsport comprising the wards of Ballygrainey, Bloomfield, Silverbirch, Ballycrochan, Ballymagee, Groomsport and Warren – seven wards;
transfer the wards of Donaghadee and Loughries from Copeland DEA (which disappears) to Ards Peninsula DEA – seven wards;
no change to the Provisional Recommendations for the DEAs of Newtownards (seven wards) and Lisbane (five wards).
16.7 The Donaghadee Commerce and Development Group proposed that the name of the Warren ward should be renamed as Donaghadee Warren. However, the names of wards were settled by the Local Government (Boundaries) Order (NI) 2012 and any change in a name is outside my remit.
16.8 Millisle and District Community Association expressed its concern that the settlement of Millisle would, under the Provisional Recommendations, be split between two DEAs – namely Copeland and Ards Peninsula; this expression of concern was supported by just over 100 letters. The Association argued that all of Millisle should be located within a single DEA and proposed that this be achieved by including the Carrowdore ward in the Copeland DEA. However, this proposal would have reduced the Ards Peninsula DEA to four wards which is contrary to the legislative Rules which require that each DEA should have five, six or seven wards.
16.9 Michael Moriarty proposed a reconfiguration of the DEAs in the district to create more compact DEAs. His proposal was as follows:-
Craigantlet DEA to comprise the wards of Clandeboye, Cultra, Holywood, Loughview, Helen’s Bay, Rathmore and Kilcooley;
Bangor DEA to comprise the wards of Bryansburn, Rathgael, Silverstream, Harbour, Ballyholme, Broadway and Castle;
Copeland DEA to comprise the wards of Ballygrainey, Groomsport, Warren, Bloomfield, Silverbirch, Ballycrochan and Ballymagee;
Ards Peninsula DEA to comprise the wards of Donaghadee, Loughries, Carrowdore, Ballywalter, Kircubbin, Portavogie and Portaferry.
This proposal would reduce the number of DEAs from seven to six.
16.10 The SDLP said that it was not making a written submission in relation to this district.
16.11 The public inquiry (transcript available at www.deac-ni.org) to hear objections to my Provisional Recommendations was held on 2 September 2013 before Assistant Commissioner Nicholas Griffin, QC in the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, Bangor.
16.12 The following persons spoke at the inquiry and their submissions are summarised as follows:-
32 Councillor Michael Bower, representing the Alliance Party, indicated that the second model set out in their written representation was their preferred model; this proposed a significant change to the Provisional Recommendations for the grouping of wards into DEAs and their names, particularly in relation to Bangor, and a reduction of one DEA – see paragraph 16.6 above;
Councillor Lee Reynolds (Belfast City Councillor) on behalf of the DUP spoke in broad support of the Provisional Recommendations with the exception of the splitting of Millisle between two DEAs and the proposed name of the Lisbane DEA; the Party strongly objected to the alternative proposals of the Alliance Party with the exception that they agreed on changing the name of the proposed Craigantlet DEA to Holywood and Clandeboye and the proposed Copeland DEA to Bangor East and Donaghadee ;
Peter Gibson, on behalf of the North Down Branch of the SDLP, expressed his support for the written submission of Michael Moriarty and the proposals of the Alliance Party which were similar;
Councillor Brian Wilson (Independent Councillor, North Down Borough Council) expressed his agreement with the Provisional Recommendations and his disagreement with the proposals of the Alliance Party; he considered that it would be more appropriate to split Millisle between two DEAs than to split Donaghadee;
Alderman Alan Chambers (Independent Councillor on North Down Borough Council) supported the proposal that the name of the Copeland DEA should be changed to Bangor East and Donaghadee and that Bangor DEA should be called Bangor Central; he thought that it would make sense to transfer Silverbirch ward into Copeland DEA; he supported the proposal by the Alliance Party for a seven ward DEA for East Bangor and Groomsport; he considered that the name of Holywood should be included in the name of the DEA which included the town; he was opposed to the splitting of Millisle between two DEAs;
Councillor Alan McDowell (Alliance Party, Ards Borough Council) objected to part of Newtownards, which is included in the Loughries ward, being in a DEA called Bangor East and Donaghadee because it would have no affinity with Bangor or Donaghadee; he would prefer the proposed name of Copeland;
Louis Scott, on behalf of the Millisle Community Association, expressed the opposition of his Association to the splitting of Millisle between two DEAs; he proposed moving the Loughries ward from Copeland DEA to the Ards Peninsula DEA.
16.13 In his report Assistant Commissioner Griffin set out his analysis of the written and oral representations and his conclusions and recommendations were as follows:-
Craigantlet DEA – there should be no change to the boundaries of the DEA as proposed by the Commissioner. However, the DEA should be renamed Holywood and Clandeboye;
Bangor West DEA – there should be no change to the boundaries of the DEA nor its name as proposed by the Commissioner;
33 Bangor DEA – the Silverbirch ward should be transferred to the Copeland DEA and the DEA should be renamed Bangor Central;
Copeland DEA – the Loughries ward should be transferred to the Ards Peninsula DEA and the DEA should be renamed Bangor East and Donaghadee;
Ards Peninsula DEA – the Loughries ward should be transferred from the Copeland DEA and the name should remain unchanged;
Newtownards DEA – there should be no change to the boundaries of the DEA nor its name as proposed by the Commissioner;
Lisbane DEA – there should be no change to the boundaries of the DEA as proposed by the Commissioner. However, the DEA should be renamed Comber.
16.14 I agree with the recommendations of Assistant Commissioner Griffin and have incorporated them in my Final Recommendations.
34 17. SUMMARY OF REVISIONS TO PROVISIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Names of District Electoral Areas
17.1 I have changed the provisionally recommended names of a number of District Electoral Areas as follows:-
Antrim and Newtownabbey Local Government District
Glengormley Urban instead of Sandyknowes
Derry and Strabane Local Government District
The Moor instead of Rosemount
Lisburn and Castlereagh Local Government District
Castlereagh East instead of Castlereagh Castlereagh South instead of Four Winds Downshire East instead of Boardmills Downshire West instead of Culcavy
Mid Ulster Local Government District
Carntogher instead of Upperlands
North Down and Ards Local Government District
Comber instead of Lisbane Bangor East and Donaghadee instead of Copeland Bangor Central instead of Bangor Holywood and Clandeboye instead of Craigantlet
Boundaries of District Electoral Areas
17.2 I have changed the provisionally recommended boundaries of a number of District Electoral Areas as follows:-
Antrim and Newtownabbey Local Government District
Mossley ward is transferred from Sandyknowes (now Glengormley Urban) DEA to Three Mile Water DEA;
Glebe ward is transferred from Macedon ward to Sandyknowes (now Glengormley Urban) DEA.
35 Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Local Government District
Gilford ward is transferred from Lagan River DEA to Banbridge DEA;
Gransha ward is transferred from Banbridge DEA to Lagan River DEA.
Fermanagh and Omagh Local Government District
Lisnarrick ward is transferred from Erne North DEA to Enniskillen DEA;
Tempo ward is transferred from Enniskillen DEA to Erne North DEA.
Mid and East Antrim Local Government District
Ballee and Harryville ward is transferred from Ballymena DEA to Braid DEA;
Academy ward is transferred from Bannside DEA to Ballymena DEA.
North Down and Ards Local Government District
Silverbirch ward is transferred from Bangor (now Bangor Central) DEA to Copeland (now Bangor East and Donaghadee) DEA;
Loughries ward is transferred from Copeland (now Bangor East and Donaghadee) DEA to Ards Peninsula DEA.
36 18. FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS
18.1 My Final Recommendations are set out in Appendix 1 and in the accompanying maps.
18.2 They comprise 34 five ward areas; 30 six ward areas; and 16 seven ward areas totalling 462 wards.
37 19. CONCLUSION
19.1 In concluding this Review, I should like to take the opportunity to propose a change in the way future Reviews are carried out. In doing so, I am conscious that I am following a similar proposal made by my predecessor as District Electoral Areas Commissioner (DEAC) – Dr. Maurice Hayes.
19.2 In his Final Recommendations Report of December 1992, Dr. Hayes highlighted a difficulty which arose during his Review due to the public perception of his role as DEAC in relation to his earlier appointment as Local Government Boundaries Commissioner. He said that both the public and public representatives generally found it difficult to differentiate between the two Reviews.
19.3 Dr. Hayes expressed the view that the procedure relating to the establishment of local government boundaries and district electoral boundaries would be improved if both the LGBC and DEAC Reviews were either combined in some way or at least dealt with in tandem. He believed that this would also ensure a much higher level of public participation and should also lead to a reduced timetable for the review of local government boundaries overall.
19.4 I agree with the comments and views of Dr. Hayes.
19.5 I received a number of representations in relation to the provisional DEA boundaries seeking adjustments to ward boundaries. Other representations sought a change in the number of wards in a local government district or in the name of a ward. Such changes were outside my remit since these matters had been settled under the terms of the Local Government (Boundaries) Order (NI) 2012. Even so, I had sympathy with those who misunderstood the process because it was only when the impact of a DEA boundary became apparent that people realised the significance of the ward architecture – which had already been determined. This was particularly so in relation to the edge of settlements containing new development. If the two exercises had been carried out simultaneously, it would have made for a more readily understood process and greater flexibility in delineating the boundaries of electoral areas.
19.6 In my view, a review should be instigated in relation to the processes pertaining to local government boundaries and district electoral areas with a view to their being carried out simultaneously and under one authority – rather than as at present where the Department of the Environment has responsibility for local government boundaries while the Northern Ireland Office has responsibility for electoral area boundaries.
19.7 Clause 12 of the Northern Ireland (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill makes provision for some of the functions of the District Electoral Areas Commissioner to become a reserved matter rather than an excepted matter as at present. If this provision is enacted, I understand that the Northern Ireland Assembly could legislate to integrate the two roles, with the consent of the Secretary of State, and it would be desirable in my view for this to occur before the next review of local government boundaries and district electoral areas.
38 20.ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
20.1 I am grateful to all those who submitted written submissions and presented oral evidence at the public inquiries during the provisional stage of the Review. The information presented was of significant value to me in the formulation of my final recommendations.
20.2 The Assistant Commissioners who presided over the various public inquiries have helped me greatly in coming to my final conclusions. I am greatly indebted to them not only for their advice but for the timeous manner in which they produced their reports.
20.3 The help and advice of my three Assessors has been of crucial importance and I extend my sincere gratitude to them.
20.4 Finally, I express my profound thanks to the Secretariat which was appointed to assist me. I have been very fortunate indeed in having such a quality team of motivated people made available to me enabling this, my final report, to be submitted to the Secretary of State within the timescale set. Liz Benson, as Secretary to the Commissioner, not only displayed leadership skills of a high order, but was a constant source of clear and sound advice. She was very ably supported by Heather McKinley (Deputy Secretary), Debbie Davison (Office Manager), and Hannah Rob (Administrative Officer). I wish them well in their future careers.
Richard H. Mackenzie CB District Electoral Areas Commissioner December 2013
39 APPENDIX 1 SCHEDULE OF FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Antrim and Newtownabbey Local Government District Number of Wards 40 Total Electorate 93,762 Ward Electoral Average 2,344
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DUNSILLY THREE MILE WATER 5 Wards Cranfield 2,307 6 Wards Ballyduff 2,295 Parkgate 2,290 Fairview 2, 1 0 1 Randalstown 2,443 Jordanstown 2,423 Shilvodan 2,362 Monkstown 2,22 1 Toome 2,47 1 Mossley 2,473 Total 11,873 Rostulla 2,397 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,375 Total 13,910 Deviation from ward electoral average +1.3% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,318 Deviation from ward electoral average -1.1% ANTRIM 6 Wards Antrim Centre 2,567 MACEDON Fountain Hill 2, 1 73 6 Wards Abbey 2,257 Greystone 1,976 Carnmoney Hill 2,296 Springfarm 2,885 O’Neill 2, 1 07 Steeple 2, 1 92 Rathcoole 2, 1 76 Stiles 2,444 Valley 2,205 Total 14,237 Whitehouse 2,025 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,373 Total 13,066 Deviation from ward electoral average +1.2% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,178 Deviation from ward electoral average -7.1% AIRPORT 5 Wards Aldergrove 2,484 GLENGORMLEY URBAN Clady 2,367 7 Wards Ballyhenry 2, 1 46 Crumlin 2,463 Burnthill 2,463 Mallusk 2,9 1 6 Carnmoney 2, 1 25 Templepatrick 2,433 Collinbridge 2,207 Total 12,663 Glebe 2,398 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,533 Glengormley 2,278 Deviation from ward electoral average +8.1% Hightown 2,069 Total 15,686 BALLYCLARE Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,241 5 Wards Ballyclare East 2,538 Deviation from ward electoral average -4.4% Ballyclare West 2,468 Ballynure 2,459 Ballyrobert 2,432 Doagh 2,430 Total 12,327 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,465 Deviation from ward electoral average +5.2%
40 Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Local Government District Number of Wards 41 Total Electorate 139,285 Ward Electoral Average 3,397
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DEA WARDS ELECTORATE ARMAGH LURGAN 6 Wards Blackwatertown 3,799 7 Wards Aghagallon 3,362 Cathedral 3,378 Knocknashane 3,0 1 4 Demesne 3,468 Lough Road 3,34 1 Keady 3,584 Magheralin 3,166 Navan 3,626 Mourneview 3,435 The Mall 3,484 Parklake 3,557 Total 21,339 Shankill 3,8 1 4 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,557 Total 23,689 Deviation from ward electoral average +4.7% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,384 Deviation from ward electoral average -0.4% CUSHER 5 Wards Hamiltonsbawn 3,398 LAGAN RIVER Markethill 3,46 1 5 Wards Donaghcloney 3, 1 79 Richhill 3,556 Dromore 3,046 Seagahan 3,709 Gransha 3, 1 59 Tandragee 3,468 Quilly 3,043 Total 17,592 Waringstown 3,582 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,518 Total 16,009 Deviation from ward electoral average +3.6% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,202 Deviation from ward electoral average -5.7% PORTADOWN 6 Wards Ballybay 3,095 BANBRIDGE Corcrain 3,375 7 Wards Banbridge East 3,160 Killycomain 3, 1 1 0 Banbridge North 3, 1 3 1 Loughgall 3,667 Banbridge South 3,268 Mahon 3,252 Banbridge West 3,543 The Birches 3,649 Gilford 3,225 Total 20,148 Loughbrickland 3,669 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,358 Rathfriland 3,364 Deviation from ward electoral average -1.1% Total 23,360 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,337 CRAIGAVON Deviation from ward electoral average -1.8% 5 Wards Bleary 3,347 Brownlow 3,762 Craigavon Centre 3,487 Derrytrasna 3,328 Kernan 3,224 Total 17,148 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,430 Deviation from ward electoral average +1.0%
41 Belfast Local Government District Number of Wards 60 Total Electorate 214,337 Ward Electoral Average 3,572
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DEA WARDS ELECTORATE CASTLE BLACK MOUNTAIN 6 Wards Bellevue 3,452 7 Wards Andersonstown 3,725 Cavehill 3,3 1 1 Ballymurphy 3,478 Chichester Park 3,730 Beechmount 3,7 1 1 Duncairn 3,830 Collin Glen 3,9 1 4 Fortwilliam 3,27 1 Falls Park 3,664 Innisfayle 3,764 Shaw’s Road 3,738 Total 21,358 Turf Lodge 3,574 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,560 Total 25,804 Deviation from ward electoral average -0.3% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,686 Deviation from ward electoral average +3.2% OLDPARK 6 Wards Ardoyne 3,590 COLLIN Ballysillan 3,387 6 Wards Dunmurry 3,676 Cliftonville 3,637 Ladybrook 3,646 Legoniel 3,490 Lagmore 4, 1 45 New Lodge 3,476 Poleglass 3,823 Water Works 3,892 Stewartstown 3,658 Total 21,472 Twinbrook 3,478 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,579 Total 22,426 Deviation from ward electoral average +0.2% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,738 Deviation from ward electoral average +4.6% COURT 6 Wards Ballygomartin 3,872 BALMORAL Clonard 3,765 5 Wards Belvoir 3,352 Falls 3,388 Finaghy 3,522 Forth River 3,226 Malone 3,452 Shankill 3,747 Musgrave 3,52 1 Woodvale 3,235 Upper Malone 3,372 Total 21,233 Total 17,219 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,539 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,444 Deviation from ward electoral average -0.9% Deviation from ward electoral average -3.6%
BOTANIC 5 Wards Blackstaff 3,598 Central 4,342 Ormeau 3,385 Stranmillis 3,746 Windsor 3,9 1 0 Total 18,981 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,796 Deviation from ward electoral average +6.3%
42 Belfast Local Government District continued Number of Wards 60 Total Electorate 214,337 Ward Electoral Average 3,572
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE LISNASHARRAGH 6 Wards Cregagh 3,098 Hillfoot 3,595 Merok 3,026 Orangefield 3,395 Ravenhill 3,086 Rosetta 3,463 Total 19,663 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,277 Deviation from ward electoral average -8.3%
ORMISTON 7 Wards Belmont 3,574 Garnerville 3,468 Gilnahirk 3,589 Knock 3,684 Sandown 3,238 Shandon 3,762 Stormont 3,6 1 3 Total 24,928 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,561 Deviation from ward electoral average -0.3%
TITANIC 6 Wards Ballymacarrett 3,4 1 9 Beersbridge 3,735 Bloomfield 3,750 Connswater 3,586 Sydenham 3,465 Woodstock 3,298 Total 21,253 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,542 Deviation from ward electoral average -0.8%
43 Causeway Coast and Glens Local Government District Number of Wards 40 Total Electorate 95,979 Ward Electoral Average 2,399
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DEA WARDS ELECTORATE THE GLENS COLERAINE 5 Wards Ballycastle 2,339 6 Wards Churchland 2,549 Kinbane 2,5 1 0 Mountsandel 2,526 Loughguile and Quarry 2,448 Stranocum 2,522 University 2, 1 43 Lurigethan 2, 1 70 Waterside 2,9 1 3 Torr Head and Windy Hall 2,683 Rathlin 2,594 Total 15,262 Total 12,135 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,544 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,427 Deviation from ward electoral average +6.0% Deviation from ward electoral average +1.2% BANN CAUSEWAY 5 Wards Aghadowey 2,569 7 Wards Atlantic 2,440 Castlerock 2,539 Dervock 2,4 1 4 Garvagh 2,283 Dundooan 2,449 Kilrea 2,476 Giant’s Causeway 2,420 Macosquin 2,32 1 Hopefield 2,478 Total 12,188 Portrush and Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,438 Dunluce 2, 1 76 Deviation from ward electoral average +1.6% Portstewart 2, 1 87 Total 16,564 BENBRADAGH Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,366 5 Wards Altahullion 2, 1 92 Deviation from ward electoral average -1.4% Ballykelly 2,248 Dungiven 2,357 BALLYMONEY Feeny 2,3 1 7 7 Wards Ballymoney East 2, 1 40 Greysteel 2,725 Ballymoney North 2,424 Total 1 1,839 Ballymoney South 2, 1 76 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,368 Clogh Mills 2,623 Deviation from ward electoral average -1.3% Dunloy 2,479 Rasharkin 2,629 LIMAVADY Route 2,229 5 Wards Coolessan 2, 1 45 Total 16,700 Drumsurn 2,354 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,386 Greystone 2,336 Deviation from ward electoral average -0.5% Magilligan 2,283 Roeside 2, 1 73 Total 11,291 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,258 Deviation from ward electoral average -5.9%
44 Derry and Strabane Local Government District Number of Wards 40 Total Electorate 104,749 Ward Electoral Average 2,619
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DEA WARDS ELECTORATE BALLYARNETT FAUGHAN 6 Wards Carn Hill 2,430 5 Wards Claudy 2,494 Culmore 2,893 Eglinton 2,76 1 Galliagh 2,857 Enagh 2,6 1 0 Shantallow 2,764 New Buildings 2,762 Shantallow East 2,994 Slievekirk 2,47 1 Skeoge 2,597 Total 13,098 Total 16,535 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,620 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,756 Deviation from ward electoral average 0.0% Deviation from ward electoral average +5.2% SPERRIN FOYLESIDE 7 Wards Artigarvan 2,438 5 Wards Ballymagroarty 2,682 Ballycolman 2,634 Foyle Springs 2,644 Dunnamanagh 2,46 1 Madam’s Bank 2,569 Glenelly Valley 2,405 Northland 2,973 Park 2,479 Springtown 2,608 Strabane North 2,430 Total 13,476 Strabane West 2,426 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,695 Total 17,273 Deviation from ward electoral average +2.9% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,468 Deviation from ward electoral average -5.8% THE MOOR 5 Wards Brandywell 2,700 DERG City Walls 2,522 5 Wards Castlederg 2,436 Creggan 2,835 Finn 2,723 Creggan South 2,593 Glenderg 2,445 Sheriff’s Mountain 2,526 Newtownstewart 2,357 Total 13,176 Sion Mills 2,550 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,635 Total 12,51 1 Deviation from ward electoral average +0.6% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,502 Deviation from ward electoral average -4.5% WATERSIDE 7 Wards Caw 2,679 Clondermot 2,780 Drumahoe 2,744 Ebrington 2,608 Kilfennan 2,722 Lisnagelvin 2,568 Victoria 2,579 Total 18,680 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,669 Deviation from ward electoral average +1.9%
45 Fermanagh and Omagh Local Government District Number of Wards 40 Total Electorate 81,065 Ward Electoral Average 2,027
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DEA WARDS ELECTORATE ERNE WEST OMAGH 5 Wards Belcoo and Garrison 2,005 6 Wards Camowen 2,236 Boho, Cleenish and Coolnagard 2,226 Letterbreen 2,253 Dergmoney 1,792 Derrygonnelly 2,057 Gortrush 2,06 1 Derrylin 1,959 Killyclogher 2,078 Florence Court and Strule 1,971 Kinawley 2,05 1 Total 12,364 Total 10,325 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,061 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,065 Deviation from ward electoral average +1.7% Deviation from ward electoral average +1.9% MID TYRONE ERNE NORTH 6 Wards Beragh 2,003 5 Wards Ballinamallard 2, 1 03 Drumnakilly 2,06 1 Belleek and Boa 2,2 1 8 Gortin 2,0 1 8 Ederney and Kesh 2,088 Owenkillew 1,941 Irvinestown 2,073 Sixmilecross 1,946 Tempo 1,910 Termon 1,882 Total 10,392 Total 11,851 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,078 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 1,975 Deviation from ward electoral average +2.5% Deviation from ward electoral average -2.6%
ENNISKILLEN ERNE EAST 6 Wards Castlecoole 2,200 6 Wards Brookeborough 1,814 Erne 2, 1 50 Donagh 1,969 Lisbellaw 2, 1 4 1 Lisnaskea 1,875 Lisnarrick 2,293 Maguiresbridge 2,240 Portora 2,0 1 3 Newtownbutler 1,903 Rossorry 1,813 Rosslea 1,824 Total 12,610 Total 11,625 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,102 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 1,938 Deviation from ward electoral average +3.7% Deviation from ward electoral average -4.4%
WEST TYRONE 6 Wards Dromore 2,0 1 2 Drumquin 2,060 Fairy Water 2, 1 49 Fintona 1,802 Newtownsaville 1,982 Trillick 1,893 Total 1 1,898 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 1,983 Deviation from ward electoral average -2.2%
46 Lisburn and Castlereagh Local Government District Number of Wards 40 Total Electorate 93,056 Ward Electoral Average 2,326
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DEA WARDS ELECTORATE KILLULTAGH LISBURN NORTH 5 Wards Ballinderry 2,549 6 Wards Derryaghy 2,405 Glenavy 2,247 Harmony Hill 2,245 Maghaberry 2,462 Hilden 2,426 Stonyford 2, 1 03 Lambeg 2,240 White Mountain 2,996 Magheralave 2,209 Total 12,357 Wallace Park 2,469 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,471 Total 13,994 Deviation from ward electoral average +6.2% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,332 Deviation from ward electoral average +0.3% LISBURN SOUTH 6 Wards Ballymacash 2,290 CASTLEREAGH SOUTH Ballymacoss 2,624 7 Wards Beechill 2,273 Knockmore 2,487 Cairnshill 2,2 1 4 Lagan Valley 2, 1 09 Carryduff East 2,5 1 8 Lisnagarvey 2,3 1 9 Carryduff West 2,278 Old Warren 2,425 Galwally 2,262 Total 14,254 Knockbracken 2,522 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,376 Newtownbreda 2,03 1 Deviation from ward electoral average +2.1% Total 16,098 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,230 DOWNSHIRE EAST Deviation from ward electoral average -4.1% 5 Wards Ballymacbrennan 2,232 Dromara 2,436 CASTLEREAGH EAST Drumbo 2, 1 69 6 Wards Ballyhanwood 2, 1 50 Hillhall 2,47 1 Carrowreagh 2,58 1 Ravernet 2,181 Dundonald 2, 1 83 Total 11,489 Enler 2, 1 05 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,298 Graham’s Bridge 2,063 Deviation from ward electoral average -1.2% Moneyreagh 2, 1 43 Total 13,225 DOWNSHIRE WEST Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,204 5 Wards Blaris 2, 1 70 Deviation from ward electoral average -5.2% Hillsborough 2,48 1 Lagan 2,249 Maze 2, 1 87 Moira 2,552 Total 11,639 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,328 Deviation from ward electoral average +0.1%
47 Mid and East Antrim Local Government District Number of Wards 40 Total Electorate 97,192 Ward Electoral Average 2,430
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DEA WARDS ELECTORATE KNOCKAGH BRAID 5 Wards Burleigh Hill 2,32 1 7 Wards Ballee and Harryville 2,372 Gortalee 2,33 1 Broughshane 2,625 Greenisland 2,283 Glenravel 2,464 Sunnylands 2,624 Glenwhirry 2,235 Woodburn 2,602 Kells 2,380 Total 12,161 Kirkinriola 2,306 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,432 Slemish 2,269 Deviation from ward electoral average +0.1% Total 16,651 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,379 CARRICK CASTLE Deviation from ward electoral average -2.1% 5 Wards Boneybefore 2,39 1 Castle 2,563 BALLYMENA Kilroot 2,770 7 Wards Academy 2, 1 6 1 Love Lane 2,470 Ardeevin 2,433 Victoria 2,6 1 2 Ballykeel 2, 1 80 Total 12,806 Braidwater 2,3 1 6 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,561 Castle Demesne 2,299 Deviation from ward electoral average +5.4% Fair Green 2,293 Park 2,22 1 LARNE LOUGH Total 15,903 5 Wards Ballycarry and Glynn 2,593 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,272 Curran and Inver 2,6 1 8 Deviation from ward electoral average -6.5% Islandmagee 2,352 Kilwaughter 2,708 BANNSIDE Whitehead South 2,605 6 Wards Ahoghill 2,473 Total 12,876 Cullybackey 2,06 1 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,575 Galgorm 2,393 Deviation from ward electoral average +6.0% Grange 2,589 Maine 2,247 COAST ROAD Portglenone 2,325 5 Wards Cairncastle 2,586 Total 14,088 Carnlough and Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,348 Glenarm 2,315 Deviation from ward electoral average -3.4% Craigyhill 2,626 Gardenmore 2,562 The Maidens 2,6 1 8 Total 12,707 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,541 Deviation from ward electoral average +4.6%
48 Mid Ulster Local Government District Number of Wards 40 Total Electorate 94,284 Ward Electoral Average 2,357
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DEA WARDS ELECTORATE CARNTOGHER TORRENT 5 Wards Lower Glenshane 2,254 6 Wards Ardboe 2,500 Maghera 2,372 Coalisland North 2,424 Swatragh 2,295 Coalisland South 2,60 1 Tamlaght O’Crilly 2,388 Donaghmore 2,603 Valley 2,447 Stewartstown 2, 1 34 Total 11,756 Washing Bay 2,329 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,351 Total 14,591 Deviation from ward electoral average -0.3% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,432 Deviation from ward electoral average +3.2% MOYOLA 5 Wards Ballymaguigan 2,508 DUNGANNON Bellaghy 2,539 6 Wards Ballysaggart 2,372 Castledawson 2,50 1 Killyman 2, 1 70 Draperstown 2,086 Killymeal 2,32 1 Tobermore 2,452 Moy 2, 1 69 Total 12,086 Moygashel 2,171 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,417 Mullaghmore 2,355 Deviation from ward electoral average +2.5% Total 13,558 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,260 MAGHERAFELT Deviation from ward electoral average -4.1% 5 Wards Coolshinny 2,489 Glebe 2,50 1 CLOGHER VALLEY Lissan 2,452 6 Wards Augher and Clogher 2,36 1 The Loup 2,588 Aughnacloy 2,245 Town Parks East 2,408 Ballygawley 2,277 Total 12,438 Caledon 2,522 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,488 Castlecaulfield 2,307 Deviation from ward electoral average +5.6% Fivemiletown 2, 1 99 Total 13,91 1 COOKSTOWN Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,319 7 Wards Coagh 2,282 Deviation from ward electoral average -1.6% Cookstown East 2,074 Cookstown South 2,276 Cookstown West 2,403 Loughry 2,088 Oaklands 2,264 Pomeroy 2,557 Total 15,944 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,278 Deviation from ward electoral average -3.4%
49 Newry, Mourne and Down Local Government District Number of Wards 41 Total Electorate 120,095 Ward Electoral Average 2,929
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DEA WARDS ELECTORATE SLIEVE GULLION THE MOURNES 7 Wards Bessbrook 3,048 7 Wards Annalong 2,896 Camlough 2,782 Binnian 2,927 Crossmaglen 2,874 Donard 2,737 Forkhill 2,7 1 6 Kilkeel 2,645 Mullaghbane 2,883 Lisnacree 3,192 Newtownhamilton 2,783 Murlough 3,0 1 5 Whitecross 2,748 Tollymore 2,889 Total 19,834 Total 20,301 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,833 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,900 Deviation from ward electoral average -3.3% Deviation from ward electoral average -1.0%
NEWRY SLIEVE CROOB 6 Wards Abbey 2,909 5 Wards Ballydugan 2,647 Ballybot 3,243 Ballyward 2,947 Damolly 3,089 Castlewellan 2,8 1 1 Drumalane 3,242 Drumaness 2,807 Fathom 2,768 Dundrum 2,829 St. Patrick’s 3,376 Total 14,041 Total 18,627 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,808 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,105 Deviation from ward electoral average -4.1% Deviation from ward electoral average +6.0% DOWNPATRICK CROTLIEVE 5 Wards Cathedral 2,755 6 Wards Burren 2,744 Knocknashinna 3,059 Derryleckagh 3,009 Lecale 2,955 Hilltown 3, 1 38 Quoile 2,767 Mayobridge 3,181 Strangford 2,740 Rostrevor 3, 1 3 1 Total 14,276 Warrenpoint 3,190 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,855 Total 18,393 Deviation from ward electoral average -2.5% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 3,066 Deviation from ward electoral average +4.7% ROWALLANE 5 Wards Ballynahinch 3,0 1 7 Crossgar and Killyleagh 2,900 Derryboy 2,955 Kilmore 2,862 Saintfield 2,889 Total 14,623 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,925 Deviation from ward electoral average -0.1%
50 North Down and Ards Local Government District Number of Wards 40 Total Electorate 111,915 Ward Electoral Average 2,798
DEA WARDS ELECTORATE DEA WARDS ELECTORATE ARDS PENINSULA BANGOR CENTRAL 6 Wards Ballywalter 3,02 1 6 Wards Ballygrainey 2,894 Carrowdore 2,836 Ballyholme 2,794 Kircubbin 2,8 1 3 Bloomfield 2,7 1 8 Loughries 2,735 Broadway 2,809 Portaferry 2,565 Castle 2,839 Portavogie 2,543 Harbour 2,980 Total 16,513 Total 17,034 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,752 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,839 Deviation from ward electoral average -1.6% Deviation from ward electoral average +1.5%
COMBER BANGOR WEST 5 Wards Ballygowan 2,946 5 Wards Bryansburn 2,8 1 6 Comber North 2,747 Kilcooley 2,722 Comber South 2,657 Rathgael 2,488 Comber West 2,732 Rathmore 2,904 Killinchy 2,547 Silverstream 2,623 Total 13,629 Total 13,553 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,726 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,711 Deviation from ward electoral average -2.6% Deviation from ward electoral average -3.1%
NEWTOWNARDS HOLYWOOD AND CLANDEBOYE 7 Wards Conway Square 2,949 5 Wards Clandeboye 2,559 Cronstown 3,168 Cultra 2,872 Glen 2,957 Helen’s Bay 2,743 Gregstown 2,5 1 0 Holywood 3,001 Movilla 2,56 1 Loughview 3,092 Scrabo 2,966 Total 14,267 West Winds 2,803 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,853 Total 19,914 Deviation from ward electoral average +2.0% Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,845 Deviation from ward electoral average +1.7%
BANGOR EAST AND DONAGHADEE 6 Wards Ballycrochan 2,6 1 8 Ballymagee 2,935 Donaghadee 2,874 Groomsport 2,848 Silverbirch 2,9 1 3 Warren 2,8 1 7 Total 17,005 Councillor to electorate ratio: 1 to 2,834 Deviation from ward electoral average +1.3%
51 APPENDIX 2
ASSISTANT COMMISSIONERS
Eileen Brady Barrister at Law
Paul Dougan Solicitor
Patrick Good QC
Nicholas Griffin QC
Sarah Havlin Solicitor
ASSESSORS
Dr Norman Caven Registrar General for Northern Ireland
Trevor Steenson Chief Survey Officer, Land and Property Services
Graham Shields Chief Electoral Officer for Northern Ireland
SECRETARIAT
Liz Benson Secretary to the Commissioner
Heather McKinley Deputy Secretary
Debbie Davison Office Manager
Hannah Rob Administrative Officer
PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL STAFF Land and Property Services
Trevor McConnell Boundaries Co-ordinator
Seamus McKibbin Spatial Data Production Manager
Jim Kelly Cartographic Manager
Eric Martin Cartographic Officer
Andrew Holdsworth Cartographic Officer
Michael Montgomery Cartographic Officer
52 APPENDIX 3 LIST OF REPRESENTATIONS
A
Alliance Party Alliance Party,East Antrim Constituency Association Ards Borough Council
B
Barton, Rosemary,Councillor,UUP Beattie, Ciaran, Beechmount Residents’ Association Black, Carol, Councillor,UUP Blair,John, Councillor,Alliance Bogside and Brandywell Initiative Bower,Michael, Councillor,Alliance Britton, Frank, Councillor,SDLP Brownlee, Breige, Chairperson, St James’s Community Forum Burnside, Philip, Alliance
C
Canavan, Claire, Clonard Residents’ Association Castlereagh Borough Council Catney,Patrick, Councillor,SDLP Chambers, Alan, Alderman, Independent Clarke, Patrick, Councillor,Alliance Connolly,Harry,Upper Springfield Federation of Residents’ Associations Cookstown District Council Coyle, Debbie, Councillor,Sinn Féin Creggan Neighbourhood Partnership Curran, Brendan, Sinn Féin
D
Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) Devenish Partnership Forum Dillon, Linda, Sinn Féin Donaghadee Commerce and Development Group
E
Elliott, Tom, MLA, UUP
F
Falls Community Council (Comhairle Phobail na bhFál)
53 Farr,Berkley,Alliance Farry,Brendan, Hillview Residents’ Association Fermanagh District Council Fitzpatrick, Peter,SDLP Flanagan, Rosemary,SDLP Foster,Sam, UUP
G
Gibson, Peter,North Down SDLP Glass, James, Sunnyside Community Association Griffin, David, Alliance
H
Hamilton, Fra, Beechmount Residents’ Association Hamilton, Marie, Councillor,SDLP Hanna, Edward, UUP Hanna, John, Councillor,UUP Hatch, Arnold, Councillor,UUP Hillview Residents’ Association
I
Irwin, James, Markets Development Association
J
Johnston, Rosemary,Hillview Residents’ Association
K
Keenan, Colin, Councillor,SDLP Kelly,Dolores, MLA, SDLP Kilmacormick I and Cornagrade Community Association Kilmacormick II Community Association
L
Larne Borough Council Lennon, Sean, Chairperson, Lenadoon Neighbourhood Partnership Lisburn City Council Lynch, Peter,Tar Annall
54 M
Markets Development Association Maskey,Alex, MLA, Sinn Féin Millisle and District Community Association Millisle and District Community Association II Molloy,Francie, MP,Sinn Féin Molloy,Oliver,Sinn Féin Monteith, Barry,Councillor,Independent Morgan, Ryan, Sinn Féin Moriarty,Michael Murphy,Barry,South Derry Cultural & Historical Society Murphy,Jonathan
Mc
McCann, Fra, MLA, Sinn Féin McClean, James, Councillor,UUP McConville, Gerry,Director,Falls Community Council McCune, Roy,Chairman, East Antrim UUP McDowell, Alan, Councillor,Alliance McFalone, Gabhán, Sunnyside Community Association McGimpsey,Chris, Councillor,UUP McGuigan, Sean, Councillor,Sinn Féin McPeake, Sean, Councillor,Sinn Féin
N
Nelson, Joe, Councillor,SDLP Nelson, Sam, Alliance
O
O’Boyle, Carmel, Councillor,SDLP O’Hanlon, Thomas, Councillor,SDLP
P
Paisley,Ivor,Director of Corporate and Operational Services, Cookstown District Council
Q
Quinn, Conor,SDLP,Lisburn Branch Quinn, Sean, Blackie Community Centre Quinn, Terry,Falls Residents’ Association
55 R
Reid, Eugene, Chair,SDLP,Ballymena Branch Reid, Stephen, Chief Executive, Castlereagh Borough Council Reynolds, Lee, Councillor,DUP Ritchie, Margaret, MP,SDLP
S
Scott, Louis, Millisle and District Community Association Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) South Derry Cultural & Heritage Society Sunnyside Community Association
T
Turner,Keith James, Kells and Connor Community Improvements Association
U
Upper Bann Sinn Féin Ulster Unionist Party (UUP)
V
Vitty,Denny,Councillor,DUP
W
Wilson, Brian, Councillor,Independent
56 MAPS
Northern Ireland
Antrim and Newtownabbey LGD
Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon LGD
Belfast LGD
Causeway Coast and Glens LGD
Derry and Strabane LGD
Fermanagh and Omagh LGD
Lisburn and Castlereagh LGD
Mid and East Antrim LGD
Mid Ulster LGD
Newry,Mourne and Down LGD
North Down and Ards LGD
57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 Office of the District Electoral Areas Commissioner Forestview Purdy’s Lane Belfast BT8 7AR
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