How do I become a local Councillor?

Woking Borough Council is made up of 36 Councillors, who are elected by thirds. A regular election of twelve Councillors in rotation is held, usually on the first Thursday in May, every three out of four years. There are no elections for the Borough Council in the fourth year. Each Councillor is elected for a four year term.

Who is eligible to stand?

You can be a candidate if:

  • you are over 18 years of age; and 
  • you are a UK, Commonwealth, Irish Republic, or EU citizen.

and either:

  • you have been on the electoral register for the Borough of Woking for at least the previous 12 months;

or

  • you have been an owner or tenant of any land or premises in the Borough for the previous 12 months;

or

  • you have resided in the Borough for the previous 12 months;

or

  • you have worked in the Borough for the previous 12 months (as your principal job or your only place of work).

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Disqualifications

The following groups are disqualified to stand for election (as set out in Section 80 of the Local Government Act 1972 and Part One of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989):

  • if you are a paid officer of a local authority and/or in a politically restricted post;
  • if you are bankrupt;
  • if you have been sentenced a term of imprisonment of not less than three months, without the option of a fine, in the previous five years; or 
  • if you are disqualified under any enactment for corrupt or illegal practices.

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Nominations

A candidates nomination pack is available before every election, when the Notice of Election is published.  You can receive a pack by contacting the Electoral Registration Officer on 01483 755855, or email elections@woking.gov.uk. 

Most candidates are nominated through a particular political party. In these cases, potential candidates should contact their party's local organisation. Individuals can also stand in their own right.

The nomination form must include the following information:

  • your full name and address; and 
  • the name of your proposer and seconder, and eight assentors.

(Please note:  your proposer, seconder and assentors must all live in the ward where you are standing as a candidate and be on the electoral register.)

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Election agent

Candidates normally appoint an agent to act on their behalf. The agent sees that the campaign is conducted in accordance with the law, deals with expenses and generally organises the campaign activities.

However, it is not necessary to appoint someone to be the agent, as candidates can act as their own agent.

More information about the role of a Local Councillor and the Councillors' Code of Conduct is available. A full copy of the Guide to Becoming a Local Councillor, published by Woking Borough Council, is available in pdf format.

For further information about becoming a Councillor, please contact Electoral Services on 01483 755855, or email elections@woking.gov.uk.