A Swanage Town Council ward election is set to go ahead following the passing of a “generous” and “respectful” councillor.
The council vacancy has arisen due to the death of councillor John Page – who represented Swanage’s North ward.
The election will be held on Thursday 6th May 2021, alongside the election for Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner.
Councillor John Page
Tributes to John
Speaking at a full council meeting of Swanage Town Council on Monday 15th March 2021, Swanage Mayor Mike Bonfield said:
“John was elected to represent the Swanage North ward in May 2019. During his time as a town councillor, he not only made valuable contributions at full council meetings, but also as part of the planning, operations and tourism committees.
“He was generous with his time and put his skills to use on the affordable housing and museum working parties as well as capital projects.
“He was always interested in the learning process, always asked intelligent questions and was always respectful towards his fellow councillors and council staff and never took anything for granted or made blanket assumptions on issues or people.
“On behalf of the town council, I record our sorrow at John’s passing. I thank him for his work for the town and I extend our condolences to his friends.”
Local elections
Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner election will be taking place on the same election day – in which incumbent Martyn Underhill is not seeking re-election.
These commissioners are elected officials responsible for overseeing policing in their local authority. The role was created by the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011, and the first elections took place in 2012.
Dorset Council’s next full election will not be until 2024.
Register to vote
Anyone who wishes to cast their ballot must register to vote by Monday 19th April 2021.
Voters who wish to vote by post must put in their application for it by 5 pm on Tuesday 20th April 2021, and those who want a proxy vote (to nominate someone to vote on their behalf) must apply for that by 5 pm on Tuesday 27th April 2021.
You can register to vote online.
