Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Director of Strategy, Performance and Governance, (copy enclosed).

The Council considered the report of the Director of Strategy, Performance and Governance requesting approval to change the location of the polling stations in Heybridge (East), Maldon (East) and Mayland.  The report also sought delegated authority for the Council’s Returning Officer to decide on an alternative polling station at the forthcoming elections in May 223, in the event of any designated venues not being available for use.

The report provided background information and details of the Council’s duty under the Representation of People Act 193 to designate Polling Places for each Polling District.  It was noted that the next review of polling places is due to be completed by January 2025.

In response to a question, the Director of Strategy, Performance and Governance advised that the pre-election was set to start on 13 March 2023 given the number of potential candidates registering.

The Director of Strategy, Performance and Governance agreed to review using Lawling Hall rather than Henry Samuel Hall for Mayland.  It was noted that this report, if agreed, would give the Director delegated authority to make such changes.

Councillor A S Fluker referred to Southminster and requested that Officers liaise with the Parish Clerk to ensure that planned roadworks etc. were not due to be carried out on polling day.  This was noted.

RESOLVED

(i)                That for the elections being held on 4 May 2023, the Returning Officer be granted delegated powers to decide on suitable alternative venues, should any designated polling stations become unavailable;

(ii)              That the following polling station designations be approved: