LE2019 Special – Dispatches from the frontline of democracy

Local Government: In Conversation

Councillor candidate hopefuls up and down the country are out in force this week, as Thursday's ballot looms. We speak to those people at the frontline of our local democracy – whether running for the first time, veteran campaigners, standing down or switching party – and to the Association of Electoral Administrators about the officers actually orchestrating this huge democratic project. Plus our thoughts on what to expect and details of our live results coverage. Guests: –Seena Shah (C), first-time councillor candidate for Chelmsford City Council, on why she wants to be involved in local politics and how she is persuading people against protest voting –Cllr David Tutt (LD), sitting leader of Eastbourne Borough Council, about residents' engagement with local issues despite the Brexit effect –Cllr Noelle Robinson (I), Ards and North Down Council, on her experience running as an Independent this time around and the fearful political environment in Northern Ireland –Cllr Alan Waters (L), sitting leader of Norwich City Council, on how the council is working to prevent low turnout due to voter fatigue –Cllr Michelle Lowe (C), deputy leader of Sevenoaks District Council (C), on why she decided not to stand again this year –Peter Stanyon, CEO of the Association of Electoral Administrators, talks us through the 'theatre' of delivering a successful election, from gas leaks to oversleeping caretakers. Hosted by Jonathan Carr-West, Ingrid Koehler and Jennifer Glover. Tweet us @LGiU