Very low turnout for Salisbury parish poll

Friday, 21 April 2023 01:00

There was a very low turnout for the Parish Poll yesterday, with only 1202 people participating.

Within the Salisbury City parish, there are around 30,000 people who were eligible to vote in yesterday's poll meaning a less than 4% turnout.

The poll, which is not legally binding, was held to gauge the people's opinion. It asked if they would support a five per cent cap on future increases to the Salisbury City Council precept and a parish consultation if any proposed increase is larger than five per cent.

The polling stations at the Guildhall and Five Rivers Leisure Centre were open between 4 pm and 9 pm and attracted very few voters.

The latter had been closed due to the poll yesterday afternoon, a decision which now looks highly questionable.

The count took just over half an hour, and the result was declared at just after 10:10 pm last night at the Guildhall.

Result:

Yes - 992 No - 206 Spoiled Papers - 4

The poll is thought to have cost around £18,000 and is not legally binding.

More to follow...

More from Local News

New flood advice websites launched to help Wiltshire, Dorset and Somerset

The Environment Agency has launched two new websites about flood issues in Wiltshire, Dorset, and Somerset.
Consultation on the future of post‑16 transport for young people with SEND begins today

Video

Wiltshire Council is launching a consultation on proposed changes to non-statutory post-16 transport for young people with SEND who have an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and is encouraging everyone to have their say.
Sharing ‘The Spitfire Story’ raises thousands for ALABARÉ

A fascinating talk, telling the incredible story of the iconic Spitfire aircraft and its links to Salisbury, has raised over £6,000 for homeless veterans' charity, ALABARÉ.
Fail to check, risk a £600 fine: Resident penalised after waste given to unlicensed collector

Wiltshire Council is urging residents to be cautious when approached about waste removal, after a resident was issued with a £600 fixed penalty notice (FPN).
Local pools make a splash in nationwide Leisure Loop recycling initiative

Wiltshire residents are being encouraged to recycle their broken and unwanted pool accessories - such as goggles, armbands and floats - through an innovative scheme operating at swimming pools across the county.
Interview: Formula 2 Driver, John Bennett

British motorsport rising star John Bennett enters a new FIA Formula 2 Championship season full of optimism, with front-running speed throughout official testing pointing towards an exciting 2026 ahead for the Trident Motorsport driver.
ALABARÉ Honours Founders With New Charity Role

Salisbury-based homelessness charity, ALABARÉ, marks its 35th anniversary in 2026, and it’s paying tribute to the contribution of the organisation’s founders.
Salisbury International Arts Festival is back with an exciting 2026 line-up

Wiltshire Creative has announced an inspiring and varied programme as part of Salisbury International Arts Festival that organisers say will burst out onto the streets of Salisbury.