Ward changes are backdrop for polling station review

People in Redditch Borough are being invited to feed back any issues with the places they go to vote during elections.

Comments are invited on issues such as the convenience of current polling arrangements, any accessibility issues including for people with disabilities, and ideas for alternative locations for polling stations.

It’s a consultation being held as part of a statutory review that Redditch Borough Council must do every five years to establish how suitable its polling districts and polling places are. All representations received will be published and inform the work of the council.

It comes after the council’s Electoral Matters Committee put forward recommendations for polling districts and places after reviewing the new Borough Wards that will come into force in May 2024.

Sue Hanley, Acting Returning Officer for Redditch Borough, said: “This review takes a more in-depth look at whether our present polling district and polling station arrangements are the best we can provide for local electors, and considers potential changes. It is especially important this year as the results of the consultation will inform the council as where best to have polling stations in the new Borough Wards and I would encourage residents and all interested parties to send in their comments.

“For example, it’s a good way to make suggestions for alternative or new locations for polling stations, as it could highlight potential venues that we don’t know about.”

The consultation launched on Monday October 2 and runs for six weeks until 5pm on Monday November 13.

During that time details of proposed electoral arrangements will be available for inspection at the Town Hall, Walter Stranz Square, Redditch between 10am and 4pm, and at www.redditchbc.gov.uk/consultations.

Comments must be made in writing, to elections@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk or by post to ‘Polling Districts, Polling Places and Polling Stations Review’, c/o Electoral Services Manager, Town Hall, Walter Stranz Square, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 8AH. For telephone support, contact the council’s Electoral Services team on 01527 881421.