A COMMUNITY council has rejected controversial plans that could see its historic villages divided for electoral purposes.

Members of Argoed Community Council voiced objections to proposals put forward by Boundary Commission, which aim to cut the number of councillors in Flintshire by 10.

If the plans go ahead the village of New Brighton could be split from the Argoed ward – which it has been at the heart of for decades – for voting purposes.

It would instead be linked to Northop and Halkyn, three and six miles away respectively, and residents’ votes would be counted in the newly created ward.

A statement by the community council, issued by clerk Rhodri Hampson-Jones, said: “Argoed community as it stands has been developed over the years from what were small villages to become a community of over 5,000.

“The area prides itself on its well established community of interest and historical links. The schools in the area provide education for all the community, inclusive of New Brighton.

“New Brighton and Halkyn are not compatible as they are so far apart and it is ludicrous for the Boundary Commission to consider it would work.”

Community leaders said the current New Brighton council ward includes the west area of Mynydd Isa and creating a new ward would mean residents would not be properly represented.

Other town councils that have submitted objections include Mold and Flint, which would see its centuries-old town divided and joined with neighbouring Bagillt.