Edinburgh’s vote is in full swing, and while the city’s 145 polling places have not experienced the record numbers of last year’s referendum, business has been described as ‘steady’. Residents have until 10pm tonight to cast their vote.
Around 80% of postal voters have already returned their papers, with a total of 357,929 people registered to take part in the election.
And with barely five hours left to cast your ballot, citizens are being urged to make sure they know where, when and how to vote so they don’t miss out.
Sue Bruce, Returning Officer for Edinburgh, said: “We already have an 80% turnout for postal votes which I think demonstrates the interest in the election.
“We don’t want anyone missing out on this important vote because they are not sure how to. I would urge voters to leave plenty of time to visit their local polling station, and to take great care when filling out their ballot papers.”
Polling places will be open until 10pm tonight, Thursday, 7 May
Information on local polling places can be found on the polling card delivered to homes or on the Council website.
Postal voters who have not yet returned their ballot paper by post will still be able to hand it in at Waverley Court or City Chambers receptions or at any Edinburgh polling place on Thursday.
Those planning to take part in the Election are also being advised to take great care when filling out their ballot paper, by marking a single X next to their choice. Additional comments, marks or mistakes can result in a vote not being counted.
The secrecy of ballot papers is important as it ensures no one feels under pressure to vote in a particular way.
Once your vote has been cast
All votes are secure and accounted for so that the final result can be trusted. Every ballot paper, whether used, unused or spoilt, is accounted for and treated as highly sensitive and confidential. Votes will be counted as soon as possible after the close of the poll at 10pm.
Full details of vote security and counting are available on the Council website.