For those interested in local democracy and helping to shape their communities, vacancies have arisen on both an Isle of Wight parish council and a town council.
Last month (September), a vacancy occurred in the Osborne ward of East Cowes Town Council.
The last date for ten local government electors for the Ward to submit written notice that they wish the vacancy to be filled by means of an election is Friday 13th October 2023.
Wootton Bridge Parish Council
A vacancy has also occurred on Wootton Bridge Parish Council. The same details apply, but the last date to give notice that ten electors wish for the vacancy to be filled by election is Monday 16th October 2023.
Have your say
In both cases, if the required number of requests for a by-election are not received then the Town/Parish Councils will proceed to fill the vacancy by means of co-option, that is, the council choosing who they would like to fill the seat without residents having a say.
The Isle of Wight council’s Electoral Services can be contacted on (01983) 823380, or in writing to
County Hall, High Street, Newport, PO30 1UD.
At least 15 co-options
According to the latest information on the Isle of Wight council’s Website, co-option has happened at least 15 times in 2023 on the Isle of Wight.
| Vacancy | Date |
|---|---|
| Bembridge Parish Council | 7/8/2023 |
| 10/8/23 | |
| Chale Parish Council | 12/5/2023 |
| Chillerton and Gatcombe Parish Council | 28/3/23 |
| Freshwater Parish Council | 24/5/23 |
| 17/8/23 | |
| Godshill Parish Council | 9/5/2023 |
| Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council | 2/8/2023 |
| Rookley Parish Council | 6/2/2023 |
| 12/7/2023 | |
| Totland Parish Council | 4/4/2023 |
| Wroxall Parish Council | 3/4/2023 |
| 16/8/23 | |
| Whippingham Parish Council | 24/5/23 |
| 24/7/23 |
The Ventnor West seat, which became vacant earlier this year due to James Toogood’s resignation, is not included in this count. According to the Ventnor Town Council Website, that seat has still not been filled, but is likely to be filled through co-option.
