Potential changes to ward boundaries in Brent could see the borough lose six councillors at the next local elections.

Those living in the borough are being encouraged to take part in a consultation surrounding the proposed alterations, which runs until April 15.

The changes have been recommended by England’s Boundary Commission to promote equal representation throughout the region.

If approved, councillor numbers in Brent will drop from 63 to 57, while the number of wards in the borough will go up by one to 22.

Professor Colin Mellors, chairman of the commission, said: “Our review aims to deliver electoral equality for local voters.

“This means that each councillor represents a similar number of people, so that everyone’s vote in council elections is worth roughly the same, regardless of where you live.

“We also want to ensure that our proposals reflect the interests and identities of local communities across Brent and that the pattern of wards can help the council deliver effective local government for local people.”

Under the draft proposals Brent would be divided into 13 three-councillor wards, and nine two-councillor wards. The wider Brent boundary and electoral boundaries for MPs are unaffected.

The final recommendations are set to be published in July 2019. If approved by parliament, they will come into effect at the council elections in 2022.

Carolyn Downs, chief executive of Brent Council, said it was important for residents to engage with this issue.

She said: “Given the increased population in Brent and the huge amount of regeneration, including thousands of new homes being built, it is clear that the ward map of Brent needs to change if every councillor is to represent around the same number of electors.

“The question is: are these proposals from the Boundary Commission the right ones? I encourage everyone to have their say in this important consultation.”