The Head of Legal and Member Services introduced a report which provided details of necessary changes required in relation to three polling places within the Borough. The report sought approval for the continuation of the status quo for one of the polling places and of suitable alternatives and changes for the other two.

Greasby, Frankby and Irby Ward – Polling District PA

The Electoral Services Officer circulated some objections which had been received from parents of pupils at Greasby Infant School objecting to the continued use of the school. A Member informed the Committee that the ward councillors were not in favour of a suggested alternative. In response to comments from Members, the Electoral Services Officer informed the meeting that the school was not capable of being divided unless an alternative room was used which had led to more complaints in the past from electors. There were no difficulties with access at this polling station

On a motion by Councillor Niblock, seconded by the Chair, it was –

Resolved – That Greasby Infant School, Barker Lane, remain the polling station for this district.

Moreton West and Saughall Massie Ward – Polling District YC

Members were informed that the current polling place for this district, Foxfield School, had now closed so an alternative was required. The offer of the Rainbow Café in Moreton Baptist Church was the best solution presented.

Responding to comments from Members, the Electoral Services Officer stated that there were a range of fees which were paid for the use of private buildings; £500 was by no means the highest. A portable station would cost in the region of £2,500 to £3,000.

The Chair commented that he was aware that Electoral Services always tried their best to get the best facilities at the lowest cost and he suggested that a report on the amounts paid for private halls be brought back to Committee within the next 12 months.

The Committee were informed that Ward Councillors were in agreement with the proposed new polling station subject to a review of the turnout and whether or not it was lower at the next election.

On a motion by Councillor Niblock, seconded by the Chair, it was –

Resolved - That the Rainbow Café room of Moreton Baptist Church should be the polling place for the YC polling district of Moreton West and Saughall Massie at the District Council Election on 5 May 2016 and at all future elections thereafter, subject to a review after the next election.

Pensby and Thingwall Ward – Polling District FB

Members were informed that the current polling place for this district, the Methodist Church in Seven Acres Road would be sold by May 2016 and that Thingwall Recreation Centre had been assessed as a suitable alternative.

Members expressed concern at the long 100 yard single carriage driveway at this alternative location and the car parking available and also the potential hazards this could cause particularly in the dark.

On a motion by Councillor Niblock, seconded by the Chair, it was –

Resolved – That this item be deferred for further discussions to take place between Electoral Services and the Thingwall Recreation Centre and a report be brought back to the January, 2016 meeting or to a special meeting of this Committee.