Burnley

Burnley’s ‘By Thirds’ Dilemma: What Do You Think?

Burnley is asking for your thoughts on its electoral system! Should we keep electing a third of councillors each year? Find out why this matters!

In a bid to engage the local community and gather valuable insights, Burnley Borough Council has officially launched a public consultation on its electoral system. The focus is on whether to continue with the current method of elections, known as ‘by thirds,’ where a third of the councillors are elected every year for a three-year cycle. This system has been in place for several years and the council is keen to hear from residents about their preferences—and any potential changes they might envision.

The consultation process allows residents to weigh in on whether they feel that the current system benefits the community or if there might be a more effective way to elect council members. Some local residents feel that the yearly elections keep issues at the forefront of the community’s attention, requiring councillors to remain accountable throughout their term. Meanwhile, others argue that such a system could lead to voter fatigue and disinterest, with elections becoming too frequent to maintain high engagement levels.

In addition, the council's outreach efforts aim to ensure that all voices are heard, with various platforms available for residents to express their opinions, ranging from online surveys to public meetings. The council emphasizes that engagement in this process is crucial as it provides transparency and a democratic approach to governance, allowing residents to influence the way their community is managed. As Burnley looks to modernize its electoral framework, the input from locals will be invaluable in shaping the future of its governance.

The results of this consultation will not only impact the electoral processes in Burnley but could also serve as a reference point for other councils considering a change in their voting systems. To put things into perspective, did you know that many councils across the UK still operate on a by thirds system, while others have made the shift to whole council elections? This ongoing dialogue is not just a local matter but part of a larger conversation about how democracy is exercised across the nation, with Burnley taking a pivotal role!