Review of Polling Districts and Polling Stations

RESIDENTS are being asked for their views as part of the Council's review of polling districts and polling stations in Reading.

Every local authority must review its polling districts and polling places every five years, with a public consultation forming part of that review. In Reading the consultation begins today (Monday Dec 3) and runs until January 2nd. Maps and information relating to current electoral arrangements are available for inspection and are displayed at the Reading Civic Centre foyer, at Reading Central Library and on the Council website at www.reading.gov.uk/pollingplacesreview2018. It is important to note that the review does not affect ward or constituency boundaries, but is instead about the location people cast their vote. Reading Borough Council is keen to receive representations from any interested individual, group or organisation, particularly those with expertise in access for persons with any type of disability, on alterations to current electoral arrangements. Representations should, wherever possible, include suggested alternative premises which may be used for polling purposes. Any elector within the authority or within the Reading East or Reading West Parliamentary Constituencies may make a representation. People can have their say at www.reading.gov.uk/pollingplacesreview2018, by emailing Polling.Review@reading.gov.uk or writing to: Reading Borough Council, Electoral Services, Civic Offices, Bridge Street, Reading, RG1 2LU

Chris Brooks, Returning Officer at Reading Borough Council, said:

“This review does not affect ward or constituency boundaries, so would in no way affect how you will be represented either on the Council or in Parliament. What it may affect is the place where you currently vote.

“Residents can access and comment on the current arrangements at www.reading.gov.uk/pollingplacesreview2018 from Monday December 3rd and have until January 2nd to comment.” Following the consultation, the Council’s Returning Officer will make recommendations of any changes to the Council, taking account of any representations made. The results of the review will be published by the Council in March 2019.