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Dumfries and Galloway Council is required to conduct a review of its polling places and districts this year. The report presented to Members at Full Council last week outlined the proposals on future Polling Districts and Polling Places.
Our Council has a duty to split the Region into polling districts, with a polling place allocated to each district. The aim is to give voters the optimal facilities for voting - they need to be easy to get to, accessible to all voters and to have appropriate capacity and facilities.
The review took account of feedback from recent elections, experience of using the current places and any recent changes in circumstances - for example new building or changes to access or roads. Polling places must be accessible to all electors, including voters with a disability, so far as practicable so that is also an important factor for us to check.
The review has identified a number of changes that are being proposed to improve the polling arrangements. The designation of polling places is a decision of the Council. However, before councillors consider the proposals and make their decision, we need to seek comments and feedback from electors and other stakeholders.
Convener of Dumfries and Galloway Council, Depute Leader Malcolm Johnstone, said "in recent years, we've seen an increase in the number of postal voters across different elections in our region. This review takes account of the number of people attending polling places to cast their votes as well as the facilities used in communities as polling stations. It also reviews the boundaries for different elections. I would encourage all local people to make sure they give their views - voting is your right, so makes sure you have your say."
Members of the public can take part in the consultation online: Review of Polling Districts and Polling Places - Dumfries and Galloway Council (dumgal.gov.uk)
The outcome of this review will be implemented in time for the forthcoming General Election.
