Get ready to vote on Thursday 2 May

Thursday, 18 April, 2024

With only two weeks to go, borough residents are being urged to get 'vote ready' ahead of the upcoming local council and Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey elections on Thursday 2 May 2024.

Local elections give residents the opportunity to vote for borough councillors who decide on services at a local level, such as planning, housing, parks and green spaces, leisure services, recycling and waste collections and more.

Woking Borough councillors are elected in thirds, with one councillor elected in each of its 10 wards. There will also be a by-election to fill the vacancy in Hoe Valley Ward to bring the total number of seats to be decided to 11.

On Thursday 2 May there is also an election for Surrey's Police and Crime Commissioner, who is responsible for overseeing the work of Surrey Police.

When voting in person, residents will need to bring photo ID, or will be unable to cast their vote at their poll station. A full list of accepted ID can be found on the Electoral Commission's website.

On polling day, elections staff will be on hand to assist with any questions. It is important that all residents feel supported and empowered to cast their vote.

Gareth John, Returning Officer for Woking Borough Council, said: "It is important that Woking residents have the opportunity to speak up about their local area, and this is the perfect occasion to do so.

"Make sure you are vote ready with your photo ID and remember to check the information on your poll card, post your postal vote or make sure your proxy voter is fully informed.

"Your vote is yours alone, don't lose it. We look forward to seeing you on Thursday 2 May."

If you become unwell you do not have to lose your vote, voters have until 5pm on polling day to apply for an emergency proxy vote. This allows voters to nominate someone they trust to vote on their behalf. To apply for an emergency proxy, voters should contact the electoral registration team on 01483 743 860.

For more information about the local elections, visit woking.gov.uk/elections