Voters will go to the polls in Kirklees on May 6 after the Government gave the go-ahead for this year’s local elections.

Council elections were postponed last year because of the Covid-19 pandemic but voting will take place this year under strict protocols.

As well as voting for Kirklees councillors, there will also be an election for West Yorkshire’s first Mayor.

The new Mayor of West Yorkshire will chair the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and oversee West Yorkshire’s £1.8 billion devolution deal.

Kirklees Council is working hard to ensure polling stations are as safe as possible for voters and staff.

The pandemic may encourage more people to vote by post.

This is what Kirklees Council says about postal voting: “Postal voting is a convenient way of voting and means that your ballot paper will be sent to you before an election.

“This means that you do not need to go your polling station if you would prefer not to. If you’re thinking about voting by post, you can apply now.

“This will make sure your application is processed early, and your postal vote can be sent to you more quickly.

If you would like to vote by post you can do one of the following:

There are over 190 polling stations across Kirklees and the council is carrying out a risk assessment at each one.

There may be queues outside at busy times and voters are encouraged to bring their own pen or pencil! Face coverings must be worn inside unless you have an exemption.

One-way systems will be in force, hand sanitisers will be available and polling booths will be cleaned regularly. Extra staff will be on duty to manage queues and keep people safe. Screens will also be installed.

Some regular polling stations may have to be moved.

Jacqui Gedman, Chief Executive and Returning Officer at Kirklees Council, said: “Over the course of the pandemic we’ve faced many challenges, including how we deliver the services that local people rely on.

“Organising elections, whilst we’re combating the Covid-19 pandemic, brings with it a number of challenges and we’re confident of delivering these elections in the safest way possible.

“Our Elections Team is working closely with colleagues in Public Health in preparation with the priority being the safety of residents and our staff and volunteers.

“All the plans for the elections in May 2021 will be under constant review in light of government guidelines and Public Health advice.”

For any further information or advice please contact Electoral Services: Email: electoral.registration@kirklees.gov.uk or Telephone: 01484 221650 (during normal office hours).