FROM the Returning Officer at Epping Forest.

“Hello, democracy is at the heart of our community, and I’d like to encourage all residents to use their votes in the upcoming district and county council elections on Thursday 7 May 2026.

Poll cards have been posted out to residents at the end of March and for new electors registering additional poll cards will be sent out weekly. Poll cards include details of your polling station and its address.

Check your polling card

Check your polling card carefully as some Polling Stations have changed since the last election. You can only vote at the polling station listed on your poll card. You do not need your polling card to vote, but you do need your ID.

• Find your polling station

As a resident of Epping Forest District, most of your local public services are currently provided by a combination of 3 councils:

1. Essex County Council
2. Epping Forest District Council
3. Your local town or parish councils

Town and parish councils provide some of the most local services including playgrounds, village halls, community centres and burial grounds. District councils are responsible for things like emptying your waste and recycling bins, street cleansing, planning and housing while county councils handle things like roads and potholes, social services and education.