Residents in parts of North Hertfordshire will soon be able to vote ahead of traditional polling day, after North Herts Council was chosen to take part in a Government-backed pilot scheme to test more flexible ways of voting.

The district is one of just four local authorities across the country selected to trial the new approach at parish and town council elections taking place in May.

Under the pilot, voters will be able to cast their ballots early at designated voting hubs before the usual polling day on Thursday 7 May.

Voting hubs will be open on:

• Saturday 2 May – 10am to 3pm

• Sunday 3 May – 10am to 3pm

The early voting hubs will be located in areas where parish elections are being contested.

Modernising the voting experience

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As part of the trial, North Herts voters will also see the introduction of electronic registers at polling stations for the first time.

Poll cards will now include a QR code, with additional QR codes printed on ballot papers. The council says this technology will help maintain the integrity of the election by ensuring that no voter can cast a ballot more than once.

Despite the digital updates, residents will still need to bring valid photo ID to vote in person.

The pilots form part of the Government's wider effort to encourage greater participation in democracy by modernising the voting process while keeping elections secure and transparent.

Where elections are taking place

Parish and town council elections are scheduled in Codicote, Kimpton, Knebworth and Royston.

These elections will only take place if more candidates stand than there are available seats.

Any district or parish by-elections called for 7 May will also be included in the flexible voting pilot.

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Polling stations on the main election day will still open at the usual times of 7am to 10pm on Thursday 7 May.

What council leaders say

Melanie Stimpson, Returning Officer at North Herts Council, said: "We are very pleased to have been selected to take part in the flexible voting pilots.

"We know that people lead busy lives and face real challenges in finding time to vote. Being able to explore new approaches is important to understand how we can better support our residents and collaborate on our Council's priorities of thriving communities and accessible services."

Shelley Abel, Electoral Services Manager at North Herts Council, added: "Taking part in this programme gives us an important opportunity to test practical delivery approaches, while ensuring that the security and integrity of the poll is retained.

"It's an extremely positive experience to work alongside colleagues across local and central government to ensure the safe and legal delivery of polls."

Key election dates

Important deadlines for voters include:

• Nomination period opens: 30 March 2026

• Close of nominations: 4pm, 9 April 2026

• Voter registration deadline: 20 April 2026

• Postal vote application deadline: 5pm, 21 April 2026

Residents can find more information about the flexible voting pilot and election deadlines at:

www.north-herts.gov.uk/flexible-voting.