Countdown begins for 22 May - Local and European elections

More than 160,000 people from across the borough will have the chance to vote for who will represent them on Rochdale Borough Council next month. Twenty of the council’s 60 seats will be contested on Thursday 22 May, with polling stations open from 7am to 10pm.  Elected councillors help make decisions on key issues such as roads, planning and education.

Local electors will also join more than 5 million others in the North West who have the opportunity to vote in European elections to select the region’s eight Members of the European Parliament (MEPs).

Returning Officer Jim Taylor said:

“Voting is the key way to get your voice heard by the people who make decisions on your behalf. Somebody will be chosen to represent you whether you vote or not so make sure get on the Electoral Register as soon as possible.  Even if you think you don’t want to vote now, an issue might come up that you want to have your say on and being on the register means you’ll have the chance to vote on it. Registering is quick and simple.”

The polls open on Thursday 22 May for both elections with the local results announced from Rochdale Town Hall in the early hours of Friday 23 May. The North West European count will take place on Sunday 25 May, as polls close across Europe. Only those on the Electoral Register, or have applied to be so, by Tuesday 6 May will be able to vote and Rochdale Borough Council is urging its residents to register now.

The Electoral Register is also used by credit reference agencies to check your name and address when you apply for credit. This means you need to be registered to apply for a mortgage, buy a car or start a mobile phone contract.

Anyone who is not registered can visit www.rochdale.gov.uk/elections to download a registration form. If residents need to update their details (for example if they have recently moved house or taken a married name) or to check whether they are on the register, they should email elections@rochdale.gov.uk or call 01706 924758.

Everyone who registers before the 6 May will be able to enter a prize draw to win an iPad at www. reasonstoregister.co.uk. Click on ‘Rochdale’ then ‘win an iPad’ to enter.