Time is running out for residents to have their say on plans that could lead to a cut in the number of councillors in Cumbria.

Allerdale Council could see its number of elected members drop from 56 to 49 by May 2019.

The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England has published draft proposals for new ward boundaries across Allerdale.

It proposes that:

* Allerdale should be represented by 49 councillors, seven fewer than there are now;

* Allerdale should have 22 wards, nine fewer than there are now;

* The boundaries of all but one ward in the borough will change.

The proposals also mean that those 49 councillors would represent ten three-councillor wards, seven two-councillor wards and five one-councillor wards across the borough.

The consultation closes on April 3.

Professor Colin Mellors, chair of the independent boundary commission, said: "We are keen to hear what local people think of the recommendations and to tell us if they agree with the proposals."

The review hopes to ensure that councillors represent similar numbers of voters.

Professor Mellors said: "We also aim to ensure that the council’s wards reflect, as far as possible, the interests and identities of local communities."

Detailed maps and information are online at consultation.lgbce.org.uk. Hard copies can be viewed at council buildings.

Comments in writing should be sent to The Review Officer (Allerdale), Local Government Boundary Commission for England, 14th floor, Millbank Tower, London SW1P 4QP or via email at reviews@lgbce.org.uk.

The commission is due to publish final recommendations in June. Once agreed, a draft order will be laid in both Houses of Parliament.

Parliament will have 40 days to consider it. If satisfied, a draft order will be "made" and new wards will come into effect at the 2019 council elections.