VOTERS across Tameside are being urged to make sure they are registered and ready to have their say in the upcoming Greater Manchester mayoral election.
The election will take place on Thursday, July 30, after former Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s return to parliamentary politics automatically triggered a contest to choose his successor.
Mr Burnham, who became the city region’s first directly elected mayor in 2017, stepped down after winning the recent Makerfield by-election to become a Labour MP again, with a 55 per cent share of the vote.
He went on to win two further mayoral terms, including securing 63.4 per cent of the vote in 2024. The election to replace him is estimated to cost around £4.7 million.
Polling stations across Greater Manchester, including in Tameside, will be open from 7am until 10pm on polling day, with the result due to be declared on Friday, July 31.
Residents must be registered to vote before midnight on Tuesday, July 14, if they want to take part.
Caroline Simpson, Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s Returning Officer, said: “The Greater Manchester Combined Authority Mayoral election is an important opportunity for people to have their say on who makes decisions that affect them, in the places where they live.
“The most important message today is that, if you haven’t already registered to vote, you will need to do so before the deadline of July 14.
“If you’ve recently moved house, you will need to register at your new address, as being registered for other council services, such as council tax, does not mean you are automatically registered to vote.”
People who cannot attend a polling station can apply for a postal vote or appoint someone to vote on their behalf by proxy.
The deadline for postal vote applications is 5pm on Wednesday, July 15, while proxy vote applications must be submitted by 5pm on Wednesday, July 22.
Anyone voting in person will also need to bring an accepted form of photo ID. Accepted forms include a passport, driving licence, and some bus passes or proof of age cards. ID can be expired as long as the photograph still looks like the voter, but it must be the original document rather than a copy.
Those without suitable ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate, with applications closing at 5pm on Wednesday, July 22.
The Mayor of Greater Manchester leads the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, working alongside leaders from the city region’s 10 councils – including Tameside.
The role includes responsibility for areas including transport, housing and regeneration, the budget and priorities for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, and acting as the city region’s Police and Crime Commissioner.
The Mayor also oversees devolved government funding, including a £630 million integrated settlement, and works to support economic growth across Greater Manchester.
Key election dates:
- Register to vote: midnight, Tuesday, July 14
- Apply for a postal vote: 5pm, Wednesday, July 15
- Apply for free photo ID: 5pm, Wednesday, July 22
- Apply for a proxy vote: 5pm, Wednesday, July 22
- Polling day: 7am to 10pm, Thursday, July 30
- Result declared: Friday, July 31