Dudley Council has confirmed that a by-election will be held in St James's ward following the resignation of former councillor Ivor Robinson. The ward covers Dudley town centre and the Russell's Hall area.
Balvinder Heran, chief executive and returning officer, urged residents to prepare ahead of polling day. "Residents planning to vote in the St James's ward by-election should make sure they are registered and have everything they need ahead of polling day," she said.
Voter ID requirements and key deadlines
Voters attending a polling station must present an accepted form of photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence, or a free Voter Authority Certificate. Those without valid ID can apply for a certificate by 5pm on Wednesday, October 21. A full list of accepted identification is available on the council's website.
Residents wishing to vote by post or proxy must also apply before the relevant deadlines. The deadline to register to vote is 11.59pm on Tuesday, October 13. Postal vote applications close at 5pm on Wednesday, October 14, and proxy vote applications at 5pm on Wednesday, October 21.
Candidate nominations and next steps
Anyone wishing to stand as a candidate must submit nomination papers by 4pm on Friday, October 2. The returning officer confirmed the timeline during today's announcement, following Mr Robinson's departure from his post.
The by-election will proceed according to the published schedule, with all statutory deadlines now set. Residents are encouraged to verify their registration status and ID documents well before polling day.
