Ealing Council Implements Temporary Polling Station Relocations for May Elections
Ealing Council has confirmed significant temporary changes to polling station locations for the upcoming local council elections on Thursday, May 7. These adjustments will impact approximately 5,000 voters across the West London borough, with the council emphasizing that these changes are specific to this year's election cycle and will not affect future votes.
Specific Polling Station Changes and Affected Areas
The council has identified four polling stations that are unavailable for the May elections, necessitating their relocation. Each change has been carefully planned to minimize disruption while maintaining accessibility.
- South Acton: Voters who previously cast ballots at All Saints Church on Church Path will now vote at the Acton Gardens Community Centre, Unit A (located behind Sainsbury's). This change results from the church being repurposed.
- Perivale: Due to extensive building works, St John Fisher Church Hall will not be available. Voters will instead use Vicar's Green Primary School on Lily Gardens, which the council describes as the closest and most suitable alternative.
- Northolt Mandeville: The Islip Manor Community Centre is currently vacant and unavailable, so voters will attend the Lord Halsbury Clubhouse at 48 Arnold Road. Ealing Council highlights this location's excellent polling facilities and dedicated disabled parking.
- Dormers Wells: Holy Trinity Parish Hall, typically used as a polling station, is being repurposed. The replacement will be the Youth Adults Centre at Park View Road, deemed the nearest suitable building.
Accessibility and Voter ID Compliance Measures
Ealing Council has assured voters that all new polling stations meet stringent accessibility standards. Each location features:
- Extensive disabled parking facilities
- Adequate space for motorized wheelchair manoeuvrability
- Low-level polling booths for ease of use
- Seating areas for voters who need to rest
In compliance with current voter ID laws, all voters must present photographic identification to cast their ballots. The council has implemented specific provisions for voters who wear head coverings for religious reasons, ensuring private spaces are available for ID verification without compromising personal or religious practices.
Temporary Nature of Changes and Voter Communication
Council officials stress that these polling station relocations are strictly temporary, applying only to the May 7 elections. The changes were necessitated by building repurposing, construction projects, and facility unavailability that coincide with this specific election date.
Voters in the affected areas will receive direct communication from the council regarding their new polling station locations. The council encourages all voters to verify their polling station information before election day to ensure a smooth voting experience.
These adjustments demonstrate Ealing Council's commitment to maintaining electoral accessibility while adapting to temporary logistical challenges. The council's proactive approach aims to minimize voter confusion and ensure all eligible residents can participate in the democratic process despite the temporary relocations.
