Your say on polling stations
News release issued:
A review of the areas polling stations serve is being carried out by Wyre Forest District Council.
The authority is also assessing the places used for polling stations to make sure that all electors have reasonably accessible facilities.
The council is required to carry out a review every five years. As part of the review, the predicted growth in the population of the district has been taken into account. The Electoral Commission has also issued new guidance which reduces the number of electors it recommends for each polling station.
For the majority of the district the Council is proposing no change to the current arrangements. It is suggesting a new polling district to accommodate the Lea Castle development and is seeking views on changes to one polling place in Offmore and Comberton. In Stourport the proposal is for a small number of electors who live in the Mitton ward to use an alternative polling station.
The full details of the review can be found on the council’s website.
Ian Miller, Electoral Registration Officer for Wyre Forest said:
“Many of our polling stations are at long-established locations and most local residents will be familiar with them if they vote in person. For most areas the review is not suggesting any changes. The proposals seek to accommodate the growth in the population in the district, both now and in the future as a result of the local plan that was adopted in 2022.
We want to hear if anyone has concerns or issues with the proposals and it is also an opportunity to let us know of your comments on current venues.”
The deadline for replying to the survey is 5pm on Wednesday 22 November. When the consultation closes, all responses will be assessed and recommendations discussed at full Council on Wednesday 13 December 2023. The proposed changes would be implemented from 1 March 2024 and would apply to any elections or by-elections held on or after that date.