The Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators have confirmed that the next election of Conservators will take place on 3 March 2027 and the Returning Officer, Appointed Conservator Peter Shortt, is now inviting those interested to come forward as candidates.
Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators (Registered Charity No. 303167) is the statutory body responsible for Wimbledon Common, Putney Heath and Putney Lower Common. Its Board of Trustees comprises five elected Conservators and three appointed Conservators. Elections for the five elected positions are held every three years, with candidates elected by levy-payers.
To be eligible to stand for election, candidates must be registered to vote and live within the WPCC levy-paying area, be eligible to act as a charity trustee, and be nominated by two eligible electors.
Anyone who has an interest in the Commons and a commitment to their long-term conservation and good governance is encouraged to consider standing. Candidates are welcome from all backgrounds and professions. No specific experience is necessary, although some experience in areas such as conservation, finance, law, governance, communications or fundraising is helpful.
The Returning Officer for the election, appointed Conservator Peter Shortt, commented:
"The role of a Conservator is varied, challenging at times, but also immensely rewarding. At its heart is the responsibility for safeguarding the future of Wimbledon Common, Putney Heath and Putney Lower Common. Conservators are the charity trustees who, collectively, set the long-term direction of the charity, ensuring that the organisation is well governed, financially secure and able to meet its statutory and charitable responsibilities."
A series of candidate briefing sessions will be held during December 2026 and January 2027 for anyone interested in learning more about the role and the election process. Details are available on the WPCC Election 2027 website along with the Statutory Notice and a Candidate Briefing and Application Pack. The Statutory Notice will be formally published in the press in December.
The deadline for applications to be included in the ballot papers is 20 January 2027 and ballot papers will be posted to levy-payers from 6 February 2027, with voting available both online and by post.