Issue - items at meetings - Polling Place Review

Report of the Strategic Director, Resources (copy attached).

RESOLVED –

(1)         That the Governance Committee approves the attached consultation document and the consultation process outlined at section 4 of the report.

(2)         That the Governance Committee will consider a further report at its meeting on 15 November 2011, to approve recommendations for alternative polling places in the affected wards.

27.1         The Committee considered a report of the Strategic Director, Resources seeking approval to consult on alternative venues for two polling stations in Withdean and East Brighton wards following a partial polling place review.

27.2         Councillor Mears advised that the Whitehawk Inn was well used on a day to day basis and questioned where a polling station might fit. She also raised concerns about the ability to drop off elderly and disabled voters outside the venue.

27.3         Councillor Morgan reported that Councillor Turton had been assured by Electoral Services Officers that there was adequate space and no access issues. He stated that he hoped voters with mobility issues would apply for postal votes. He also advised that he had requested for consideration to be given to using the community space on the Whitehawk development in the future.

27.4         Councillor A Norman thanked the Head of Electoral Services for contacting ward councillors about the consultation, which she welcomed. She recognised that Westdene School was not suitable and stated that her preferred venue was the Ascension Church as it had good access and facilities.

27.5         Councillor G Theobald stated that portacabins were used in a number of polling districts where suitable venues could not be found.

27.6         The Head of City Services confirmed that the consultation identified one alternative venue for the East Brighton polling station and two options for Withdean. She explained that choosing polling station venues was challenging and that officers considered a variety of factors before making proposals.

27.1         RESOLVED –

(1)         That the Governance Committee approves the attached consultation document and the consultation process outlined at section 4 of the report.

(2)         That the Governance Committee will consider a further report at its meeting on 15 November 2011, to approve recommendations for alternative polling places in the affected wards.