Swindon Borough Council is seeking views from residents and stakeholders on whether to change how often it holds elections in a public consultation that opens on 14 August.
The crux of the discussion revolves around two distinct options: the existing ‘by-thirds’ elections approach and the alternative ‘whole council’ election model.
Currently, Swindon Borough Council follows a ‘by-thirds’ system, wherein a third of councillors are elected in three out of four years, with the fourth year devoid of elections.
This consultation gives residents the chance to request that the council shift to a ‘whole council’ election. This would mean that every four years, all borough councillors would be elected simultaneously, with the intervening three years remaining election-free, excluding by-elections.
The timing of this consultation aligns with a review of electoral boundaries led by the independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE). This review aims to rectify electoral disparities in St Andrews and Wroughton & Wichelstowe wards, where elector numbers are uneven. he consultation thus stands as an essential precursor to establishing Swindon’s voting pattern for the impending changes in ward delineation.
After the consultation period has finished, councillors will meet later this year to consider all the feedback received and decide on whether or not to change the election cycle.
Expressing his thoughts on the matter, Matt Box, Swindon Borough Council’s Head of Elections and Democracy, remarked, “This consultation is an opportunity for the people of the Borough to have their say on how they vote for their local councillors in the future.
“I would encourage everyone to take part in the consultation using the online feedback form and paper copies in libraries so that councillors can understand the views of residents before making their decision.”
Swindon residents can have their say on their preference between the two options via an online survey or a paper version available at Central, Highworth, North Swindon, Park and West Swindon libraries.
The consultation runs until 25th September.
