POSTAL votes for the upcoming Forest of Dean District and County Council elections were dispatched on Monday, April 14, with more than 12,800 ballot packs now on their way to eligible voters across the district.

Forest of Dean District Council confirmed that this first batch of postal votes includes applications that were received and processed up to and including Tuesday, April 8.

These ballots are for residents in Cinderford East and Newent and Tayton wards, who will be casting their votes in both the County Council and District Council elections.

The council is urging all postal voters to read the instructions included with their voting packs carefully before completing them. Ensuring the forms are filled out correctly and returned on time is essential for making sure votes are counted.

The elections, which will take place later this month, provide an opportunity for residents to elect new representatives for both the Forest of Dean District Council and Gloucestershire County Council.

These elections will be electing councillors to represent locals on critical issues such as planning, housing, and community development.

Polling stations will be open across the Forest of Dean on Thursday, May 1.

Voters who have not opted for a postal vote can cast their ballots at their designated polling stations.

In addition to postal voting, voters are reminded that they will need to bring identification to polling stations on election day. This is part of new measures being introduced to enhance election security.

If you’re unsure about what ID is acceptable, check the full list of requirements on the Forest of Dean District Council website.

For further information about the election process, including candidate details, polling stations, or voter ID requirements, residents are encouraged to visit the council’s official website or contact the electoral services team directly.