Local Government By-Election

Information for voters

Voters may wish to consider applying for an absent vote, which means voting by post or by proxy, meaning someone votes for them.

Important deadlines

For a polling day on 1 October 2026, the following deadlines apply.

Register to vote

Applications to be included on the electoral register must be received by:

  • midnight on Tuesday 15 September 2026

Register to vote

Apply for a postal vote

Applications for a new postal vote, including a postal proxy vote, must be received by:

  • 5pm on Wednesday 16 September 2026

Change an existing postal or proxy vote

Requests to change an existing postal vote or proxy vote must be received by:

  • 5pm on Wednesday 16 September 2026

Apply for a proxy vote

Applications for a new proxy vote, except emergency proxy votes, must be received by:

  • 5pm on Wednesday 23 September 2026

Learn more about how to vote

Page last modified: 31 August 2026

Electoral Registration Office

If you are a resident in the area and have not registered to vote, or think that your name may be missing from the Register, call the Electoral Registration Office’s team for advice.

Telephone: 0800 393 783