Notice of Local Government Election published: nominations are now open

Nominations open today (Tuesday 15 March) for candidates to stand in the forthcoming Local Government Election.

The Election will take place on Thursday, 5 May, when people living across Edinburgh will elect members to the City of Edinburgh Council.  

The Notice of Election was published yesterday for Edinburgh’s 17 wards where three or four councillors will be elected in each ward to represent residents. 

In 2017, 63 councillors were elected to represent the City of Edinburgh Council, with a 50.5% turnout for the city – up from 42.6% in 2012.

In order to stand as a candidate, individuals must submit nomination papers, by 4pm on Wednesday 30 March.  

YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE A MEMBER OF A POLITICAL PARTY TO STAND FOR ELECTION !!

 Andrew Kerr, Chief Executive of the City of Edinburgh Council and Returning Officer for Edinburgh, said: “The Notice of Election signifies the official start of the election period. The forthcoming election will enable the city’s residents to have their say, and I would take this opportunity to urge all citizens to make sure they are registered and use their vote.

“There are a range of options for casting ballots – in person, by post or by appointing someone trusted to vote in your place, known as a proxy.

“The local councillors elected make important decisions on provision of public services, including education, social care, waste management, libraries, planning and much more on behalf of Edinburgh residents.

“Preparations are well underway to ensure a successful election with plans for any additional restrictions required due to the ongoing pandemic. We’re keen to continue the enthusiasm demonstrated by voters during last year’s Scottish Parliament Election when we had the same range of safety measures in place.” 

Find out more about voter registration and elections.

Key dates and times:

• Register to vote by midnight on Monday 18 April
• Register for postal or proxy vote by 5pm on Tuesday 19 April
• Apply for emergency proxy votes by 5pm on Thursday 5 May
• Vote in person at polling places between 7am and 10pm on 5 May
• Ballot papers will be counted on Friday 6 May
• Voters can obtain more information about the elections and how to vote at www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voter