Planning to vote in Rugby's local elections? Here are the safety measures in place at polling stations

Rugby voters in next week's local elections have been urged to follow safety measures introduced at polling stations to ensure votes can be cast in a Covid-secure environment.

Rugby Borough Council's elections team has worked with the Electoral Commission, Government and public health chiefs while planning for the elections on Thursday, May 6.

Safety measures have been under constant review to ensure precautions meet the latest public health guidance, while voters have been encouraged to help keep polling stations Covid-secure by bringing a pen or pencil to cast votes and wearing a face mask (unless exempt).

Voters can expect the following measures to be in place on polling day:

Separate entrances and exits

Altered layout to allow for social distancing while waiting to vote

Polling station staff wearing PPE

Hand sanitiser when entering the polling station

Regular cleaning of polling booths

Single-use pencils

Aftab Razzaq, returning officer for Rugby, said: "Our preparations for the local elections have taken place over many months with regular input from the Electoral Commission, the Government and public health experts.

"We have organised a range of safety measures to ensure voters can visit polling stations with confidence, and I'd encourage voters to play their part by bringing a pencil or pen to cast their vote and wearing a face mask, unless exempt.

"The safety measures may mean voters have to wait longer to cast their vote, so I'd also encourage voters to consider visiting polling stations outside of traditionally busy periods."

Peak voting times at polling stations include 7am to 9.30am, lunchtime, 3.30pm to 4.30pm and 6pm to 8pm.

Polling stations open from 7am to 10pm, with all voters queuing to vote at 10pm allowed to cast a ballot.

Elections taking place next Thursday (6 May) include Rugby Borough Council, Warwickshire County Council, and Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner.

Residents can check the location of their polling station and find out more information about the local elections at www.rugby.gov.uk/elections.