Almost two-thirds of students living in Kingston say they would be more likely to vote in the upcoming General Election, if there was a polling station on the University campuses.

The survey carried out by RiverOnline, found many students were undecided on whether they would be voting in the election but said a polling station accessible from campus would encourage them to vote.

Andrew Bessant, the Returning Officer for the Royal Borough of Kingston, whose role it is to oversee the voting procedure and count, said: “The idea of having a polling station on the University campus is an interesting one and would undoubtedly increase the student turnout. It would not be possible to have a facility just for University students because of the requirement for them to be registered in the locality.

“However, a polling station at, or near a significant area of student accommodation could be considered in the future” he added.

Maddy Whitty, a first year graphic design student said: “If I walked past a polling station on campus I would definitely be more inclined to vote.  It sounds lazy but it needs to be more convenient for people like me and there isn’t enough out there for students. It’s not really aimed at our age group”.

Students at the Penrhyn Road campus have a 4 minute walk to their nearest polling station, those at Knights Park have a 6 minute walk, Roehampton Vale students face a 10 minute walk and Kingston Hill students face a 14 minute trek.

Electoral Services Manager Gareth Harrington said: “It is important that students eligible to vote in Kingston, do just that. The more people that vote, the better.”

 “The Council has always been very keen to engage young people in the democratic process. In the past we have put on various events to try and achieve that though, in most cases, without much success. It remains a major priority in the long-term.”

Libby Wimble, another first year graphic design student, said: “I plan to vote but I don’t really know how to register. I got a letter about it through my door but there wasn’t much explanation.”

 Local residents and Kingston based students can register to vote up to 11 days prior to the election, likely to be called for Thursday 6 May.