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Concerns have been raised on the eve of Alderney's election about how older and less mobile voters will reach the ballot box with new parking arrangements in place this year.
The election is being held tomorrow, with the ballot box open at the Island Hall between 09:30 and 18:30.
Yesterday morning it was announced that the gates to the Island Hall will be closed while the election is taking place with "no vehicular access from 09:30 until after 1830 to the grounds of the Island Hall".
It was also announced, by Alderney Law Enforcement, that the two parking spaces closest to the Island Hall in Royal Connaught Square at the bottom of Rue De L'Eglise will be coned off from approximately 17:30 today. They added that this area will be "coned off to create a pick up and drop off point for less mobile voters".
Anyone needing further assistance was asked to contact the 'general office'. However, that didn't satisfy potential voters in Alderney who instead took to social media to ask "is this a joke?" among other comments.
Alderney Law Enforcement defended the move to ban parking in the Island Hall grounds saying "For an event which the States of Alderney has gone to great lengths to ensure as many people as possible can vote and to address other concerns raised, it is far from ridiculous. If you have concerns around the process I would encourage you to raise the matter with the States."
They also added that this decision was made "in response to voters comments and concerns".
Another voter commented saying that "the advertised set up is actually making voting MORE difficult". They also suggested that those involved with organising the election need "to learn a little more about Alderney".
Following the outcry yesterday and overnight, a further announcement was made this morning that vehicular access will be allowed to the grounds of the Island Hall for those with mobility issues.
The post initially included: "We apologise for the miscommunication."
Express understands that the candidates have been told they can't stand outside the Island Hall while the voting is taking place, as they have in the past. It's believed some may instead stand in the road near the Island Hall.
Of the ten candidates standing, five will be elected to the vacant seats in the States of Alderney.
Each voter will have five votes they can cast but they do not need to use them all if they don't wish.
The votes will be cast between 09:30 and 18:30 with the count held immediately after the polling station closes. The results are expected to be announced during Saturday evening.
Following tomorrow's election there will be an election for the President of the States of Alderney later this month, with nominations closing on Monday.
Then next month, there will be a Plebiscite to elect Alderney's two representatives in the States of Guernsey for the next two years.
"Speed hustings" first for Alderney
EXPLAINED: The States of Alderney
FOCUS: Alderney's Plebiscite - what is it?
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