Early voting to be trialled in Cambridge May elections.

Cambridge will pilot a government-backed early voting scheme before the May 7, 2026 local elections, with in-person voting available April 30–May 2 at three city hubs; officials say approved digital checks will prevent duplicate votes.

Cambridge has been chosen as one of five local authorities to pilot an "early voting" system ahead of the council elections on May 7, 2026. The pilot will allow in-person voting on three days before polling day, at designated hubs across the city. The council says the trial is government-backed and will use approved digital checks to protect the integrity of the poll. Postal and proxy voting will remain available and voters can still use their usual polling stations on May 7. Key details: - The early voting days are Thursday April 30, Friday May 1, and Saturday May 2, 2026. - Three voting hubs will operate: The Guildhall, the Meadows Community Centre, and the Clay Farm Centre. - Hubs will be open from 9am to 6pm on each early voting day, and any eligible elector may vote at any hub. - The pilot will use approved and secure digital technology to help ensure no one can vote more than once. - Cambridge City Council is one of five local authorities selected for the government-backed pilot. - Robert Pollock, Returning Officer, and Vicky Jenner, Electoral Services Manager, said the council will work with the Government and suppliers to plan, deliver and evaluate the pilot while maintaining security. Summary: The pilot is presented as a way to offer voters more choice and flexibility in how and when they vote for the May 2026 city council elections. Officials say they will plan, deliver and evaluate the trial with partners to assess its security and effects on participation ahead of the main polling day.