What time do polling stations open and close

The 2024 general election is set to take place on Thursday, July 4, with polling stations across England opening their doors for voters.

On July 4, the general election will take place after current prime minister and Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak finally made the call. Mr Sunak will be hoping to win back voters across the country during the election campaign following a disastrous set of results in the local elections, with the Tories losing almost 500 councillors.

Current polling data shows Sir Keir Starmer's Labour party as favourites for this election. However, Reform UK, which launched as the Brexit Party under Nigel Farage in 2018, is growing in popularity, overtaking the Liberal Democrats.

It's important to note that voters will need to bring ID with them following rules brought in prior to the last local elections. Only certain types of photographic identification, such as passports and driving licences, will be accepted.

When do polling stations open and close?

They'll be open all day on Thursday, July 4, from early morning until late evening, to accommodate as many voters as possible. Early birds can cast their votes from 7am, and polling stations will remain open until 10pm.

Your polling card will indicate your local polling station, or you can locate it on your local council's website by entering your postcode.

While it's not necessary to bring your polling card to vote, do remember to carry your photo ID. Furthermore, don't stress if the polls close while you're still waiting in line.

The Electoral Commission has clarified that if you're still in line to vote when the polls officially close, you're guaranteed entry and the right to cast your vote.