A review of where polling stations are situated in Lichfield and Burntwood is set to look at the impact of school closures when votes take place.
Lichfield District Council, which has responsibility for the siting of facilities used during elections, will outline plans for a review at a meeting of the regulatory and licensing committee tonight (3rd October).
A report by Angela Lax, Cabinet member for legal and regulatory services, reveals that while most areas are likely to remain as they are, there will be a chance to assess the impact of using some sites.
“At every election the council receives complaints from parents whose children’s school is closed,” Cllr Lax said.
“The review can assess whether there are better alternatives than the school.”
The council is required to review all polling places every five years, with the next compulsory review due for completion by the end of January 2020.
Around 60 locations are currently used – and the report suggests “the vast majority remain suitable”.
However, some residents may see new locations set aside for polling stations.
“Elmhurst and Shenstone Wood End polling districts have a very low number of voters,” Cllr Lax added. “The review should look at whether these districts could be combined into others on the grounds of value for money.
“Since the last review, St John’s Church Rooms in Chase Terrace have become unavailable. As a consequence, voters in one polling district have a polling place in another district. Is there a better alternative?
“The Streethay polling station is currently provided in a mobile facility at Bexmore Drive, but in recent years there has been significant development in Streethay, including the building of Streethay Primary School – is this a better polling place?”
The review process is expected to be completed in December, with a consultation taking place as part of the project.
