Issue - meetings

To consider the report from the Returning Officer on a review of Polling Districts, Polling Places and Polling Stations.

Council received a report from the Returning Officer following a review of the polling stations.  The report recommended a number of changes to be incorporated in the next electoral register revision.  Alternative venues to schools were proposed where this was possible which would significantly reduce the number of schools used.

Councillor T. Fidler had commented on the Halliford and Sunbury West site during the review but this had not been included in the report.  The Head of Corporate Governance apologised for the error.  The Deputy Mayor advised that there would be an opportunity to make further comments before the review was completed on 31 January 2020.

Resolved to

(a)  Note the report of the Returning Officer

(b)  Request the Electoral Services Manager to incorporate the changes in the next revision of the electoral register

(c)  Authorise the Electoral Services Manager to implement the changes outlined in the report of the Returning Officer with effect from the next election.

Reason for decision:

To ensure that all voters have equal access to polling places and all polling stations are suitable for electors. To select alternative venues to schools for polling stations where possible.