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Flexible Voting Pilots

02 March 2026

Proposing MP
Samantha Dixon Lab
Chester North and Neston
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
View on Parliament.uk -->

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement discusses the Government's commitment to modernising polling station operations to improve voter convenience and satisfaction.

Action Requested

The Government is partnering with four local authorities for flexible voting pilots in May 2026, testing early or advance voting and a centrally located voting hub, to explore modernising the voting experience while ensuring security and transparency. Comprehensive evaluations will be conducted to inform future reforms.

Key Facts

  • The Government is partnering with Cambridge City Council, North Hertfordshire District Council, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, and Milton Keynes City Council for the pilots.
  • The pilots will take place during the scheduled elections in May 2026.
  • Three councils will test early or advance voting, allowing voters to cast ballots before polling day.
  • Milton Keynes will test a centrally located voting hub on polling day.
  • The pilots aim to improve voter accessibility, satisfaction, and inclusion while safeguarding security and transparency.
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