Lambeth Council's Electoral Services has completed and published the statutory review of the location of polling stations and new polling districts in the 25 new wards across the borough. In collaboration with Friends of Gipsy Hill, and in light of other local comments, we participated in the original call for views and made representations covering the new Gipsy Hill, Knights Hill, West Dulwich and St. Martin's wards. 

Due to concerns on the use of schools and the impact on pupil education through closures on polling day, we and others presented a number of alternative venues. Some alternatives were accepted, but some schools will continue to be used. Due to the geographical size of, and number of steep hills in, Gipsy Hill and Knights Hill wards we and others argued for an increase in the number of polling stations. This was agreed in respect of Knights Hill ward only. We have some doubt that the Council has achieved its aim of ensuring that all polling stations are within 10 minutes walk of every elector. We cannot see any response on a number of other points we made; e.g. for an emphasis on encouraging people to cycle to vote, siting polling stations on bus routes and prominent transport routes, or the use alternative or temporary venues.

The Council's polling stations and districts review web page has more background; see especially the new wards map and location of polling stations map. You can read the full report here on the Council's website (item 13).

Many voters will be using a different polling station at the Local Council Elections on 5 May 2022, so please study your elector's card when it arrives a few weeks beforehand.