Call for Candidates for Commons Conservators Elections
Residents of levy paying areas invited to stand
The Conservators are responsible for Putney and Wimbledon Commons. Picture: WPCC
November 13, 2026
Residents with a passion for protecting some of south-west London's most cherished open spaces are being encouraged to stand for election as a Conservator of Wimbledon and Putney Commons.
The Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators (WPCC) has confirmed that the next election for its five elected Conservators will take place on 3 March 2027. Returning Officer and appointed Conservator Peter Shortt is inviting eligible local residents to put themselves forward as candidates ahead of the ballot.
WPCC, a registered charity, is the statutory body responsible for managing and protecting Wimbledon Common, Putney Heath and Putney Lower Common. Its Board of Trustees is made up of eight Conservators, including five elected members chosen by levy-payers every three years and three appointed Conservators.
To stand for election, candidates must be registered to vote, live within the WPCC levy-paying area, be eligible to act as a charity trustee and be nominated by two eligible electors. The organisation says it is keen to attract candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and professions, provided they have a strong commitment to the long-term conservation and governance of the Commons.
The Putney Society has encouraged people from SW15 to stand noting there are currently no trustees from the area.
While no specific professional qualifications are required, experience in areas such as conservation, finance, law, governance, communications or fundraising may prove valuable.
Peter Shortt said: “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 briefing sessions for prospective candidates will be held during December 2026 and January 2027, providing an opportunity to learn more about the responsibilities of the role and the election process.
The statutory notice, candidate briefing materials and application pack are now available through the WPCC election website. The statutory notice will also be formally published in the press in December.
Applications to be included on the ballot paper must be submitted by 20 January 2027. Ballot papers will be sent to levy-payers from 6 February 2027, with voting available both online and by post ahead of the election on 3 March.
The WPCC was established under the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Act of 1871. The Commons comprise some 1,140 acres across Wimbledon Common, Putney Heath and Putney Lower Common.
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