What to expect when voting in the Wiltshire local elections

Wiltshire Council says it is working hard to ensure the local elections run smoothly for the 381,454 people registered to vote in May. Of those, 70,733 (18.5 per cent) are registered to vote by post.

Terence Herbert, council chief executive and the returning officer encouraged residents to use their vote, as these elections will impact their day-to-day lives.

READ MORE: What is the political makeup of Wiltshire Council heading into the local election?

People voting by post should have started to receive voting packs through their letter boxes and so far between 3,000 and 4,000 have sent their ballots back.

Mr Herbert asked that people return the packs as soon as possible.

For those voting in person, the name of their polling station will be on the poll cards.

New Wiltshire Council chief executive officer, Terence Herbert

Some venues that the council would have used in the past as polling stations could not be used due to Covid-19 – these venues include pubs, schools and care homes.

Voters exercising their democratic rights are also asked to take masks (unless they are medically exempt) and their own pens or pencils – though some can be provided.

Hand sanitiser will also be available at the polling stations, and Mr Herbert warned that people should be prepared to queue outside.

County all Trowbridge. Offices of Wiltshire Council at Trowbridge. Photo Trevor Porter 67302 7..

The council has needed to recruit more polling staff this year, adding that it is looking for some staff – particularly poll clerks – to help in the smooth running of the elections.

To find out more about the paid roles please visit wiltshire.gov.uk/elections/jobs.