# Start afresh or switch maps

Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface.

Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map
Updated: 2026-10-20

New starts another map; it does not preserve an extra version of the one on screen. Save a copy first if you want two versions of the same design.

![Start afresh or switch maps — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/new-map.png)

The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation.

## 1. Save & New

When this choice is available on an unlocked map, it saves the current work before starting afresh. Wait for the save to finish. If saving fails, keep the current page open and deal with the error before leaving.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map#new-map--save)

## 2. New Without Saving / New Map

Starts afresh and leaves unsaved changes behind. The current map type is the starting choice. To choose a different boundary product, use More Maps or Create New Map beside the relevant product in your saved-map manager.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map#new-map--fresh)

## 3. Cancel or the close cross

Dismisses the warning and keeps the current map open. Use this when you clicked New accidentally, or want to check the design before deciding.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map#new-map--cancel)

## 4. Open an existing map instead

Open takes you straight to your saved-map manager when the current map has not changed. If it has changed, choose Open & Save to keep the changes before opening the manager, or Open without saving to continue immediately without saving them. Then find the required record and use EDIT. Starting a new map and opening a saved one are different jobs.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map#new-map--open)

## 5. Keep both versions of a design

Use Save a Copy of this map in the Save menu where it is offered, and give the copy a distinct name. This is the useful route for next month’s territories, an alternative layout or a proposal that must not replace the original.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map#new-map--copy)

## Related guides

- [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save)
- [More Maps: find the right boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more)
- [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access)
- [Warnings, confirmations & busy messages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages)