Be the Voice of Bude and Stratton
Do you care about what happens in your community? Are you passionate about making a positive impact and ensuring local voices are heard? Standing as a Town Councillor in the May 2025 elections could be your chance to shape the future of Bude and Stratton.
No other role gives you the opportunity to make such a significant difference to the quality of life for people in your area. From addressing the unique challenges of our coastal location to supporting community projects and influencing decisions on local services, your input could be vital.
Our town is as diverse as its people, and to truly represent the community, we need councillors from all walks of life—young people, parents, retirees, and everyone in between. Councils work best when they reflect the needs and perspectives of the entire community.
Whether you’re passionate about the environment, community facilities, events, or ensuring Bude and Stratton thrives for future generations, your voice matters. You don’t need prior experience—just a commitment to making a difference. Full training and support will be provided to help you succeed.
If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I could make a change,” this is your chance. More details on how to stand for election can be found below.
Your community needs you. Will you step up?
How to Stand as a Candidate
The Notice of Election will be published on Friday 14th March 2025.
Nomination packs can be collected from the council offices at the Parkhouse Centre or requested from Cornwall Council by email at voter-registration@cornwall.gov.uk or by calling 01872 324 196.
Steps to Stand for Election
- Review the guidance for candidates:
Electoral Commission: Guidance for Parish Council Elections in England
Cornwall Council: Guidance for Candidates - Submit your nomination papers in person to the designated Cornwall Council office before 4:00pm on Wednesday 2 April 2025. See the guidance for nomination papers here.
Who Can Stand for Election?
To be eligible to stand as a town councillor you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a British, Commonwealth, or EU Citizen
- Meet at least one of the following:
◊ Be a registered local government elector for the parish
◊ Occupy (as owner or tenant) land or premises in the parish
◊ Have your principal or only place of work in the parish
◊ Reside in the parish or within 4.8km (3 miles) of it
Key Skills for a Town Councillor
Councillors play a vital role in shaping the local area. The following skills and qualities are beneficial:
- Passion for Community Service: A commitment to supporting the local community
- Interest in the Local Area: A desire to enhance the welfare and environment of Bude-Stratton
- Utilisation of Skills: Bringing personal or professional expertise to benefit the community
- Focus on Local Services and Facilities: A strong interest in the services and facilities available to residents
What Happens Next?
- Thursday 3 April 2025 – The statement of persons standing for election will be published.
- If there are more candidates than available seats, a poll will take place on Thursday 1 May 2025.
- If there are fewer candidates than seats, those candidates will be declared elected and will take office on Tuesday 6 May 2025.
