Hamworthy East could face another election just months after residents chose a new town councillor.
The vacancy follows the resignation of Councillor Daniel Bleeze, who was elected to Poole Town Council’s Hamworthy East ward in May with 779 votes and a majority of 392.
Councillor Bleeze resigned 2 months into the role, shortly after leaving Reform UK to sit as an independent, citing concerns about openness and tolerance of differing views within the Reform group.
A notice published on Friday 3 July says a by-election will only take place if 10 Hamworthy East electors submit written requests by 22 July.
Should the required number of requests be received, the Returning Officer will set a polling date, which is expected to be in September to allow for the required 6-week pre-election period.
If no by-election is requested, Poole Town Council will fill the vacancy through co-option by appointing a replacement councillor directly.
Liberal Democrat Councillor Marcus Andrews said residents expect candidates to be prepared to serve their full term, describing the prospect of another election as “avoidable”.
Anyone requesting a by-election must provide their name and address in writing to Returning Officer Aidan Dunn at BCP Council Civic Centre, Bourne Avenue, Bournemouth, BH2 6DY.
