What time do polling stations open and close in Newcastle? Opening and closing times for local elections 2022

In just a few days the people of Newcastle will have their chance to vote on local councillors in their area.

The 2022 local council elections are scheduled to take place across multiple areas in the North East with seats being contested in Newcastle, Gateshead, South Tyneside and North Tyneside to name a few.

This is a smaller election, and you vote based on your ward rather than your constituency.

So, when can you cast your vote?

Here’s everything you need to know about the polling stations across Newcastle.

When is the local council election?

The local council elections are scheduled to take place on Thursday 5 May.

What time do polling stations open and close in Newcastle?

Polling stations across Newcastle will be open from 7am, and will close at 10pm.

You do not have a specific time in which you must turn up. As long as you are registered you can go and cast your vote at any point within the given timeframe.

How can I vote?

There are three ways in which you can vote, they are the following:

• In person
• By post
• By proxy 

The deadline for registration for each of these options has passed. However, this does not mean you can not vote.

If you are unable to make it to the polling station on election day you can vote via emergency proxy.

Voting by proxy means that you ask a trusted person to vote on your behalf if you are able to vote in person on polling day.

You can apply for an emergency proxy vote, and you have until 5pm on polling day to do this.

What rules must you follow when at the polling station?

While you can discuss your voting intention you are not allowed to take a picture of your ballot. If you do so you may be fined.

You do not need to bring your polling card with you to the polling station but bringing one may help the process move along quicker.

You do not need to bring ID with you to vote. If someone asks for ID and tries to stop you from voting then you should immediately report this.

To find out more about how to find your polling station check out the NewcastleWorld breakdown of the polling stations across the wards of Newcastle.

Can I bring my children to the polling station?

People are encouraged to bring their children, to teach them about democracy.

It is a chance to encourage the next generation of voters to use their voice.

Can I bring my dog to the polling station?

Yes, you are able to bring your dogs to the polling station with you. The dogs must be kept under control and not disrupt the proceedings.

In fact, in recent elections it has become a tradition to take pictures of your dogs at the polling station and post them on social media. Even our four legged friends love democracy.