Elections latest news

Follow this page for the latest news and updates on upcoming elections.

Changes to postal and proxy voting applications

The Elections Act 2022 introduced a number of changes to our electoral system, including how we vote by post and proxy.

Residents in the District are advised that from Tuesday 31 October 2023, voters will be able to apply to vote by post online. Previously, postal votes could only be applied for by completing a paper application form.

If you wish to vote by post, but cannot apply online, a paper application form is available from the Electoral Commission’s website at www.electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/voter, or please contact us by email at voting@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk or telephone on 01636 655459.

Postal votes will last for a maximum of three years with voters required to re-apply for their postal vote at the end of this period. If you currently have a postal vote in place, you do not need to take any action now. We will write to you when it is time to renew.

Proxy voting has also changed from Tuesday 31 October 2023. Under new rules, voters will be limited to acting as a proxy for two people, regardless of their relationship. Anyone voting on behalf of UK voters who live overseas may be eligible to act as a proxy for up to four people. Voters will be able to apply to vote by proxy online for some types of proxy vote.

A National Insurance number will need to be provided on postal vote and proxy vote applications. If someone is not able to provide it, alternative proof of identity may be accepted. You will also need to upload an image of your usual signature.

These changes are part of the Elections Act and further information can be found at www.electoralcommission.org.uk/who-we-are-and-what-we-do/our-views-and-research/elections-act.

Register of Electors annual canvass 2023

Annual registration forms will be delivered to every property in the District from Friday 12 August 2022, to make sure we know who is eligible to register to vote.

For more information visit our new register of electors page.

District and Parish elections 4 May 2023

The Newark & Sherwood District Council, Parish and Town Council elections took place on Thursday 4 May 2023. Polling stations are now closed.

More information about these elections.