Elections

Why vote?

Politics affects almost everything from motoring, to shopping, from the television we watch, to the food we eat. That's why elections are so important. Because it's our chance to affect politics and shape the decisions that in turn will shape our lives.  Voting is the most important way to make your voice heard on the issues that concern you.

Decisions are made on your behalf every day, ranging from what is happening in local schools and what recreational facilities you have, to national issues like healthcare and education, to global issues like defence and the environment.

In many countries around the world, including the UK, people have fought to gain the right to vote. The right for women to vote on equal terms with men in the UK was still being argued about only 70 years ago. But having the right to vote is not enough. A strong and stable democracy also relies on people using their votes. By voting, you can hold your elected representatives accountable.

Chester elects its Councillors by thirds.  This is, you elect one third of your councillors (20 seats) every year for three years. Then, after one year without elections, the process begins again. View details of the current Order of Retirment for more information

The next year without a local election for seats to the City Council is 2009.

Who can vote?

The following people are allowed to vote:

 

• if you are eighteen years or over.
• all British, Commonwealth, Irish and other European Union citizens.
• overseas electors
• members of HM Forces and their spouses
• crown servants employed outside the United Kingdom
• european citizens are allowed to vote in European and Local Elections only.
• overseas Electors are allowed to vote in Parliamentary and European Elections only.

Poll cards are delivered shortly before an Election. Each member of the household who is eligible to vote should receive a poll card which informs them of the date of the election, where their polling station is and the hours of poll. You do not need to take the poll card with you to be able to vote.

• for Local Elections the hours of poll are 7.00am to 10.00pm
• for Parliamentary and European Elections the hours of poll are 7.00am to 10.00pm
• for General Elections the hours of poll are 7.00am to 10.00pm
• on arrival at your designated polling station, the Presiding Officer will ask you to confirm your name and address and will issue you with a ballot paper.
• the ballot paper will be marked with an official stamp.
• you should take the ballot paper to the voting booth and mark with a "X" the candidate you wish to vote for.
• fold the ballot paper and deposit it in the ballot box.

What if I am unable to get to the Polling Station on Election Day?

If you are unable to go to your Polling Station on Election Day, you can apply for a Postal Vote or a Proxy Vote (a proxy is someone who votes on your behalf).

• if you have a permanent physical incapacity, are registered blind or receive the higher rate of mobility component of the disability living allowance for a physical disability you are eligible for a permanent postal or proxy vote. The form requires the declaration that the information is correct from a doctor, nurse or warden of a home.
• if your work frequently takes you overseas
• if you will be on holiday when the election is taking place
• if you have moved house since you registered and are unable to go to your old polling station.
• if you are working during all hours of voting, for example as a member of the election staff.

Please contact the Electoral Registration Officer who will advise which form you need to complete.

Postal Vote

You are welcome to apply for a Postal Vote  if you are unable to go to your Polling Station on election day.

Complete the application form if you wish to apply for a postal vote. Alternatively you can pick up an application form at any of our customer Service Points or use the contact details above to request a form.