Residents encouraged to consider voting options ahead of May elections

Voters in Tendring are being encouraged to think about how they will cast their ballot in the upcoming elections.

On Thursday, 6 May 2021, Tendring residents will go to the polls to have their say on who represents them at Essex County Council, and who is the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex.

There will also be by-elections for Tendring District Council (TDC), where there are currently two vacant seats across the Eastcliff, and West Clacton & Jaywick Sands wards.

Ahead of the election, TDC is asking voters to consider how they may cast their ballot on polling day – and details of the Covid-secure measures can be found at www.tendringdc.gov.uk/PollingDaySafe.

Polling stations will be open and operating on a Covid-secure way, with voters asked to wear a mask and bring their own pen or pencil to mark their X on the ballot papers. Pencils will still be provided and thoroughly cleaned between each use.

People are being asked to avoid the usual peak times of 6-9pm, and take advantage of their flexible working arrangements where possible – and voters should be prepared to queue as there will be limits on the number of people permitted in the polling station at any time. Polling stations will be open from 7am until 10pm as normal.

Alternatively voters can apply for a postal vote – where their ballot papers are delivered using Royal Mail – or a proxy vote, where you choose somebody to vote on your behalf.

Registering to vote, or for a postal or proxy vote, can be done at https://www.tendringdc.gov.uk/council/elections-voting/2021Polls. The deadline to register to vote is 19 April; while postal vote applications must be made by 20 April, and proxy votes by 27 April.

Ian Davidson, Local Returning Officer for Tendring, said the elections are a chance for people to have a say on who represents them.

“There is a lot of hard work going on to make sure that however you choose to cast your vote in May, you can do so safely,” Mr Davidson said.

“If you’re thinking about voting by post or proxy, you can apply now – allowing as much time as possible to process your application and making sure you receive your voting details more quickly.

“Remember, you must be registered to be able to vote – don’t miss your opportunity to have your say.”

Poll cards will be delivered soon to people’s homes, allowing you check that you are registered to vote and your current chosen method. Voters are urged to check their local polling station as some may have changed for this year’s elections.

Those looking to stand in the elections can find out more, including a nomination pack, at https://www.tendringdc.gov.uk/council/elections-voting/2021Polls – with the deadline to apply of 8 April.

General information about Covid-security at the elections can be found at www.tendringdc.gov.uk/PollingDaySafe and residents can also contact the elections team at elections@tendringdc.gov.uk or by calling 01255 686575.