What time do local election polling stations open and close today?

Polling stations will be open for 15 hours tomorrow. (Picture: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

The May Local Elections 2023 are upon us today, with 230 of England’s 317 councils due to hold ballots.

While local elections see a lower turnout than general elections, millions of voters will still be making their voices heard today, depending on whether their area is voting.

This election, you’ll be required to bring a photographic ID in order to vote for the first time.

So, once you’ve laced up your shoes and grabbed the correct ID, how long do you have until polling stations close today?

Here is what you need to know.

What time do polling stations close today?

Polling stations will be open from 7am until 10pm on Thursday, May 4, 2023.

However, you will be allowed ot vote if you join the queue before 10pm, even if you cast your ballot slightly after closing time.

Remember to bring photo ID in order to vote. (Picture: Dinendra Haria/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

By tradition, elections in the United Kingdom are held on Thursdays. However, the polling station opening hours mean you will be able to find time to vote before or after work or even during your lunch hour.

If you aren’t sure where it is, there are plenty of options for how to find your polling station, including using your poll card or searching online.

Remember, you can still hand in an unsent postal vote at a polling station on election day during opening hours.

While you will need to bring your photographic ID to vote, you do not need to bring your poll card if you’ve misplaced it.

Your poll card should have a helpline number on it that you can use if you have any problems voting.

MORE : Will needing voter ID this Thursday make you less likely to vote?

MORE : When is the deadline to vote by post in the May 2023 local elections?

Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Share your views in the comments below