Polling Stations Open Across England for Local Elections
Polling stations across England opened at 07:00 BST on Thursday, marking the start of local and mayoral elections in various regions. The elections encompass 24 councils, six mayoral authorities, and a parliamentary by-election in Runcorn and Helsby, Cheshire. Voting will continue until 22:00 BST, with results expected to be declared overnight and throughout Friday.
Key Contests in the 2025 Local Elections
The elections are a significant political event, with approximately 1,650 seats being contested across 14 county councils, eight unitary authorities, one metropolitan district, and the Isles of Scilly. Additionally, six mayoral elections are taking place in the West of England, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Doncaster, North Tyneside, Hull and East Yorkshire, and Greater Lincolnshire. Notably, Hull and East Yorkshire, along with Greater Lincolnshire, are holding mayoral elections for the first time.
The parliamentary by-election in Runcorn and Helsby has garnered attention due to its potential to shift political dynamics. The by-election was triggered by the resignation of former Labour MP Mike Amesbury, who stepped down following a conviction for assaulting a constituent. Reform UK is seen as a strong contender to overturn Labour’s nearly 15,000-vote majority in the constituency, making it a closely watched race.
Photo ID Requirement for Voters
For the first time, voters in England are required to present photo identification at polling stations. Accepted forms of ID include passports, driving licenses, and Armed Forces Veteran Cards. Those who have lost or damaged their ID can apply for an emergency proxy vote until 17:00 BST on polling day. This new requirement has been implemented to enhance the integrity of the voting process.
Political Implications of the Elections
These elections are the first major electoral test for Labour since its landslide victory in last year’s general election. The results could provide insights into the public’s perception of Keir Starmer’s government and its policies. Labour aims to solidify its gains, while the Conservatives are bracing for potential losses, particularly in areas where they performed strongly in 2021 during Boris Johnson’s “vaccine bounce.”
Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, is also seeking to make inroads, particularly in traditional Labour strongholds and mayoral contests. The Liberal Democrats and Greens are hopeful of making gains but remain cautious about the potential impact of Reform UK’s growing influence.
Postponed Elections and Boundary Changes
While elections were initially planned for all 21 county councils in England, the government postponed them in nine areas undergoing local authority reorganization. Additionally, a Boundary Commission review has led to changes in ward structures and the number of councillors in some regions, such as Buckinghamshire, where the number of councillors has been reduced from 147 to 97.
Timeline for Results
Votes will be counted overnight on Thursday and throughout Friday. Results for the parliamentary by-election and some mayoral contests are expected to be among the first to be announced. Council results will follow later on Friday, with counting taking place at various venues across the country. For example, votes in Buckinghamshire will be tallied at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, with results anticipated by 19:00 BST on Friday.
As the results unfold, the elections are expected to provide a clearer picture of the political landscape in England and the challenges facing major parties ahead of future national elections.
Source: PA Media, BBC, The Guardian