His resignation has created a casual vacancy, in the Hilltop Ward. In accordance with electoral regulations, a Notice of Vacancy was published on Wednesday, 4th March 2026, triggering a 14-day period in which electors may request that the vacancies be filled by election. You can view the full Notice of vacancy Hilltop Ward Sept 2026 here.

What happens next?

The vacancies are filled by either the election of new candidates or co-option. An election means the people of Blandford Forum get the chance to vote on who they want to represent them, a Co-option is when the Council itself chooses who will fill the empty seats.

Election

At least 10 people from the Hilltop Ward must write to Dorset Council to request an election- it is not an automatic process.

If ten or more registered electors from the Hilltop Ward submit a request in writing to the Returning Officer at Dorset Council by 7th of October 2026, an election will be held for that ward.

You can email in a request to: elections@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or you can send written requests to: The Returning Officer, Dorset Council, County Hall, Dorchester DT1 1XJ.

This request must:
  • Be in writing (email or hard copy)
  • Include the name and address of the elector making the request
  • Clearly state that the request is for an election to be held to fill a vacancy in Blandford Forum Hilltop Ward

You may write something like: “I am a registered elector of Blandford Forum Hilltop Ward, and I request that an election be held to fill the vacancy on Blandford Forum Town Council.” The elections team will be able to look up the name on the register and confirm that they are registered to vote and therefore can make the request.

If fewer than ten requests are received, the Town Council will fill the vacancy by co-option. This is a formal process in which eligible residents can apply to be considered and may be appointed by councillors at a public meeting.

Find Out More

For further details about the process, or to express interest in becoming a councillor, please contact:

Claire Commons
Town Clerk
01258 454500
clerk@blandfordforum-tc.gov.uk

We will provide an update after 7th of October 2026 confirming the outcome of the election period and next steps.