Councillor elections under progress, determining numerous candidates for Runcorn and Helsby by-election
Local Voting Underway Across England, With Key Races and Early Forecasts
The polls are open for local elections across England, including the Runcorn and Helsby by-election, providing a first electoral test for party leaders since last year's general election. With strict rules imposed by Ofcom, this article provides an overview of the ongoing voting process and some early indications for the outcomes.
Local Elections: Possible Tide Turning for Conservatives?
In total, 23 of England's 317 local authorities are holding elections, alongside the Isles of Scilly. The votes mark a crucial moment for the Conservative Party, which faces the possibility of heavy defeats. According to recent polling, the party could lose over half of its seats due to a significant drop in vote share compared to 2021 [1][3]. However, the scene is not entirely bleak for the Tories as they attempt to defend their positions.
The race is also heating up for the Liberal Democrats, who aim to take control of key councils such as Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Shropshire, Cambridgeshire, and Devon [1]. Meanwhile, Labour faces pressure from independents and smaller parties, risking losing its majority in Doncaster [1][3].
Reform UK Riding the Wave of Popularity
Polling at 25% nationally, Reform UK is poised to challenge the traditional two-party landscape and gain influence in key regions like Durham, Lincolnshire, Staffordshire, and Nottinghamshire [1][4]. The party's upsurge signifies a potential historic change in the UK's party system [1][3].
Runcorn and Helsby By-Election: A Critical Test for Labour's Leadership
A by-election is taking place in Runcorn and Helsby, triggered after Labour MP Mike Amesbury decided to step down following his assault conviction. The results haven't been announced yet, but Labour is focusing its efforts on retaining the seat amidst the scrutiny on its leadership [3][4].
Mayoral Contests: Snagging a Major Role for Reform and Labour
Six mayoral contests are ongoing in various regions, including the West of England, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, North Tyneside, Doncaster, Greater Lincolnshire, and Hull & East Yorkshire [3][4]. The elections will help determine Reform's viability in executive roles and Labour's influence in post-industrial regions [1][3].
Stay tuned for more updates as the counting progresses. Join New Statesman for ward-by-ward updates or tune into Sky News for overnight coverage for the latest developments in these elections.
[1] New Statesman local election tracker
[2] Sky News live coverage
[3] Guardian coverage of local elections
[4] BBC local elections overview
- The Conservative Party could face heavy losses in the local elections, with over half of their seats at risk, according to recent polls. This might particularly be the case in regions like Cambridgeshire, as councils there are up for grabs.
- The Liberal Democrats target key councils, aiming to take control of areas like Shropshire and Oxfordshire, but also face pressure from smaller parties and independents in places like Doncaster.
- Reform UK, polling at 25%, could significantly impact the traditional two-party landscape by gaining influence in regions such as Nottinghamshire, Durham, Staffordshire, and others. The party's surge could mark a historic change in the UK's party system.
