Very low turnout for Salisbury parish poll

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…