The new arrangements were ratified by councillors in December following a widespread consultation with members of the public, the main political parties and groups that represent disabled people.

The review examined two main issues. Firstly whether or not the existing polling districts needed  adjusting to take account of recent changes in population, and secondly, to ensure that polling stations remain fit for purpose and represent the most suitable venues in each polling district.

Some changes were made to polling district boundaries in the Fairfield ward in the Battersea constituency and the Wandsworth Common ward in the Tooting constituency to realign them with the new Parliamentary constituencies which came into effect at the 2010 General Election.

There are also some minor changes to polling district boundaries in Balham's Nightingale ward in the Tooting constituency.

The council's policy is to use buildings like community halls and church halls and other suitable public buildings as polling stations. These venues should be as accessible as possible for the disabled with special ramps for wheelchair access provided. The use of schools is avoided wherever possible to prevent disruption for pupils and parents.

January 2, 2012