Voters asked their views for polling station review

Rother District Council is carrying out a full evaluation of polling districts and stations, which it is required to do every four years, and wants to hear what residents think of proposed changes.

The review will ensure there are reasonable facilities for every voter in Rother, including those with disabilities.

Of the 66 polling stations in the district, 62 are considered fit for purpose with changes proposed for the remaining four.

In Marsham Ward the current polling station, Guestling Village Hall, is in need of updating and improvement work.

As there are no suitable alternatives, it is proposed that the whole parish is made a polling place to give flexibility should an alternative venue become available.

The possible closure of Etchingham Village Hall before a new hall has been built means voters in Ticehurst and Etchingham Ward could be left with nowhere to vote. The council propose to make the parish a polling place to give flexibility to choose an appropriate venue if needed.

In Rother Levels Ward, Peasmarsh Memorial Hall is now refurbished and it is proposed that this be the designated polling station.

Issues raised about access to St Mary’s Church Hall in Battle has led to a proposal for the Benedicta Whistler Centre next to the church to become the designated polling station in Battle Town Ward.

Residents will have until January 10 to comment on the proposals and can email [email protected] using the words ‘Polling Place Review’ in the subject line.