A TOWN council by-election is set to take place, after the previous incumbent stepped down from the role.

Grattan Bowen opened up the vacancy in the Pategill Ward last month, and an election has been called by 10 residents living in the ward.

However, it is not yet clear when the by-election contest will occur.

It is currently slated for 2021. Although that could change if amendments to current regulations are brought in.

Under the provisions of the Coronavirus Act 2020 and The Local Government and Police and Crime Commissioner (Coronavirus) Regulations, the by-election will not take place in the near future owing to the pandemic.

As such, the vacancy will be held open until a time where a poll can be held.

Current regulations provide for the by-election to take place next year (on Thursday, 6 May). 

However, the town council advises this date may be brought forward or deferred by the Government depending upon broader circumstances.

Any election that is in due course called will be duly publicised, as required by law.

If readers are interested in standing for the Pategill Ward by-election, they can find more information at: www.penrithtowncouncil.co.uk under Elections or Vacancies. 

Alternatively, they can email the town council on: office@penrithtowncouncil.co.uk.