UPDATE: New Exmouth constituency could be formed and East Devon split in two

A new Exmouth parliamentary constituency could be formed in changes proposed by the Boundary Commission for England.

A public consultation is now open until 2 August.

Why are the constituencies changing?

Constituency boundaries are changed regularly to make sure that each MP in Parliament gets a similar number of people eligible to vote in their area.

As of March 2020, by law every constituency proposed has to have between 69,724 and 77,062 people who can vote.

What's being proposed?

The current East Devon constituency is represented by Simon Jupp MP, and covers areas including the towns of Topsham, Exmouth, Sidmouth, Ottery St Mary, and the village of Clyst St. Mary.

The new proposed constituency would shrink down to just the towns of Topsham, Exmouth, and Budleigh Salterton (among others), while Sidmouth and Ottery St Mary would join a larger Honiton constituency consisting of towns such as Honiton, Axminster, and Seaton.

The Exmouth constituency would also expand into Exeter beyond Burnthouse Lane, and withdraw from Poltimore back to Broadclyst.

Simon Jupp, MP for East Devon, said: "The constituency I'm proud to represent contains the largest population in Devon and has to change under the rules of the boundary review.

"I will put forward my views as part of the consultation process as the East Devon constituency will change to reflect a growing population across the area.

"I voted to ensure Parliament can't block the final recommendations which are designed to make Parliamentary representation fairer across the United Kingdom."

When would the changes come into effect?

The Boundary Commission's current review will conclude with a formal report and recommendations in June 2023, which are likely to be implemented.

The proposals are currently under public consultation until 2 August. Maps and details on how to submit a response are available at www.bcereviews.org.uk