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3mo ago

Government Postpones May Elections in 29 English Councils to Enable Reorganisation

Ministers say the deferrals free capacity to create single-tier authorities, with elections to new bodies planned for 2027.

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FRODSHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 24: Reform UK leader, Nigel Farage and candidate Sarah Pochin (R) go on a walkabout in the constituency while launching her campaign as the candidate for the Runcorn and Helsby by-election on March 24, 2025 in Frodsham, England. Reform UK are launching their campaign and announcing their candidate for the upcoming by-election in the Cheshire constituency of Runcorn and Helsby, after incumbent MP Mike Amesbury announced he would stand down following his conviction earlier this year for assaulting a constituent. During the general election in July 2024, the newly formed constituency of Runcorn & Helsby voted 51.2% Labour, with Reform UK coming in second with 18% of the vote. (Photo by Ryan Jenkinson/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Officials published the full list of 29 councils where polls will be delayed, while elections in 34 other reorganising areas will proceed as planned.
  • Existing councillors in affected areas will have their terms extended, with unitary council elections expected in May 2027 and new councils operational from April 2028.
  • The postponements form part of a plan to replace the two-tier county–district model with unitary authorities, which the government argues will cut duplication and improve services.
  • Reform UK’s judicial review will be heard on 19–20 February under an expedited High Court timetable, with 30 January set as the deadline for interested parties to join.
  • Political and regulatory scrutiny continues, including the Electoral Commission’s reported doubts over the ‘exceptional circumstances’ test and the Commons Speaker’s view that May’s contests should take place.