THE PARLIAMENTARY constituency which contains Horndean looks set to be wiped off the political map.
George Hollingbery could go down as the first and only MP to represent the Meon Valley if plans by the Boundary Commission for England (BCE) are rubber stamped.
The Parliamentary seat – which the Conservative has held since its creation in 2010 – is one of two constituencies in the South East that is earmarked for the chop.
It will be swallowed up by its neighbours with the likes of Horndean, Clanfield and Rowlands Castle becoming part of the East Hampshire constituency.
Denmead and Hambledon will become part of the Winchester constituency while Cowplain, Wecock and central Waterlooville will be absorbed by Havant.
Mr Hollingbery called the news “deeply disappointing”, especially as the Alresford-based politician increased his majority at the 2015 General Election.
But while there’s a long way to go before any boundaries are redrawn, the Tory supports the changes as he believes they are in the “best interests of democracy.”
He said: “These changes to constituency boundaries mean everyone’s vote should carry the same weight in future parliamentary elections.
“Of course, I’m deeply disappointed my constituency will cease to exist because I very much love representing the Meon Valley: a place full of great people, places, businesses and natural beauty tucked into the heart of Hampshire.
“But, until the change, I promise I will continue to do the best I can to represent residents and to help them with their problems and issues.”
The proposal is part of a bid to reduce the number of MPs in the House of Commons from 650 to 600 but the planned electoral reforms have not been without controversy. Critics believe the changes will hit Labour hardest as most of the constituencies earmarked for abolition or merger are in the party’s heartlands.
The BCE insists the proposals are only draft with a 12-week consultation starting yesterday (Tuesday).
“During the next 12 weeks we want people to take a look and tell us what they like and don’t like about our proposals,” said secretary to the BCE Sam Hartley.