Early May looks like being a particularly busy period for local government (as if there is ever a quiet moment!).
Many councils in England will be gearing up for local elections on 4 May, with more than 8,000 seats – around half of all seats – up for grabs, across 230 district, unitary and metropolitan councils.
About 70 per cent of the electorate will have the opportunity to vote, in what will be the first British elections requiring voters to present photo identification at polling stations.
The LGA and other organisations, including the Association of Electoral Administrators, the Electoral Commission, the Government, and councils themselves, have been working hard to publicise the new requirements.
We are pleased to see awareness levels rising, with most voters knowing they need to bring ID with them on 4 May.
We have also urged people to treat all polling station staff with respect and patience as these new changes are implemented, and I know councils will be working around the clock to ensure the election day goes smoothly.
I know you have also been very busy preparing for HM King Charles III’s and the Queen Consort’s Coronation, just two days after polling day.
This will be a historic day for us all, with the eyes of the world on the pageantry and celebrations.
Councils around the country will be marking this unique occasion by facilitating road closures for street parties; running local events such as parades, thanksgiving services and celebratory lunches; lighting up local landmarks in red, white and blue; and encouraging volunteering through the Big Help Out on the Bank Holiday Monday.