The Electoral Services Manager introduced a report which provided details of changes in relation to Polling District YA within Moreton West and Saughall Massie Ward and sought Members’ approval of a suitable alternative.

Moreton West & Saughall Massie Ward – Polling District YA

The Electoral Services Manager advised that further to the last meeting of this Committee held on 22 November 2017, it had been resolved that the decision to move the polling place from Christchurch C of E Primary School, Upton Road to Christ Church Parish Centre, Upton Road be adjourned in order for Electoral Services to further investigate the matter.

It was reported that the Electoral Services Manager had visited the school to carry out a further inspection as to whether the suggestion to erect barriers by Councillor Blakeley would be feasible.

The Electoral Services Manager reported that in order for barriers to be erected this would require someone to be on duty at all times to prevent any breaches as the playing area would be in use.  Issues had also been raised in respect of parking and the headteacher had expressed concern in respect of safeguarding risks.  It was therefore concluded that should the school remain as the designated polling place then the status quo would continue to be the most suitable arrangement in that the school closes on polling day, however, if the school was to remain open it was recommended that the polling place be relocated to Christ Church Parish Centre, Upton Road, for all future elections/referenda.

Councillor Chris Blakeley, Ward Councillor, attended the meeting and reiterated his concerns in respect of the alternative venue in that this may disadvantage voters as they would have further to travel in order to cast their vote.  He believed the school could remain open whilst continuing to be used as the polling place and did not consider that someone would have to be on duty at all times.

Members considered Councillor Blakeley’s concerns and discussed the possible alternative venue and the disadvantages to parents should the school continue to close on polling day.

On a motion by Councillor R Abbey, seconded by Councillor J McManus, it was –

Resolved – That the polling place be relocated to Christ Church Parish Centre, Upton Road for all future elections/referenda.