CAMPAIGNERS fighting controversial boundary changes are calling on the community to have their say before it’s too late.

A consultation into proposals to reduce the number of constituencies in the South East from 84 to 83 to ensure they all have similar numbers of residents comes to an end today.

If the plans go ahead, boundaries will be redrawn. The current proposals will see Hadleigh and Daws Heath become part of Southend West, while Pitsea and parts of Basildon will join Benfleet, Thundersley and Canvey to form Castle Point.

St James’ and Victoria wards will leave Castle Point to join Southend West, Pitsea North West will join Basildon and Billericay, and Wickford North will become part of Rayleigh and Woodham Ferrers.

The consultation ends today, with residents having until the end of the day to make their feelings known.

More than 140 people across Castle Point have already taken part in the consultation, with fears the borough will be left without a castle if Hadleigh is moved.

A campaign has been launched by residents who are unhappy that their elected MP will change without them getting to vote.

Alf Papworth, chairman of the Hadleigh Residents Association, has written to the other members calling on one last push for objections to be submitted.

In his letter, he said: “I want to thank you for your tremendous support in opposing the Boundary Commission England proposal to change the boundaries of the Castle Point Parliamentary Constituency.

“Over 140 people from the borough submitted their representations to the commission and, based on previous experience, this is a significant position of strength for the campaign in opposing the proposal.

“However, we ought not to be complacent with this position and there is still now an extended opportunity for us to do all we can during this second period of consultation to encourage our family, friends, and work colleagues to submit their representations opposing the proposed changes.

“I would encourage you to do all you can to help this important cause and work together to ensure the castle remains in Castle Point.”

To comment on the proposals, visit bce2018.org.uk by the end of today.