Residents Could Go to the Polls After Portland Councillor Vacancy

Residents in part of Portland could soon be asked to vote after a vacancy was declared on Portland Town Council.

The open seat represents the Tophill East ward, and electors now have the opportunity to request a by-election. Under electoral rules, ten registered voters from the ward must write to Dorset Council’s Returning Officer within 14 days of the official notice no later than 26 February 2026 for an election to be held.

If enough requests are received, a by-election must take place no later than 5 May 2026. If no request is made, the vacancy may instead be filled by co-option, meaning councillors would appoint a replacement.

The vacancy follows the resignation of councillor Scott Horton, who stepped down after around six months in the role. Portland Town Council confirmed his departure but said no reason was given.

Mr Horton was elected in July last year to represent Tophill East in a by-election triggered by the resignation of Independent for Dorset councillor Marc Etheridge. He was elected as an Independent for Dorset candidate but was no longer part of the group at the time of his resignation.

Further information about the by-election process is available from Dorset Council Electoral Services.