The government has reversed its decision to delay 30 council elections in England after receiving legal advice, clearing the way for all scheduled ballots to go ahead in May 2026.
Local Government Secretary Steve Reed had previously approved postponing the elections until 2027 to support a sweeping reorganisation of local government.
However, Reform UK launched a legal challenge against the delay, with the case due to be heard in the High Court. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said that ‘following legal advice’ the original decision had been withdrawn.
In a letter to council leaders, Reed confirmed he had asked Matthew Pennycook, the Minister of State at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government – who was not involved in the initial decision – to reconsider the matter urgently.
The letter confirmed: ‘The housing minister has decided that the elections should proceed in May 2026. The Secretary of State will seek to agree an order with the Claimant in the light of this announcement disposing of the claim and will agree to pay the Claimant’s costs of these proceedings.’
Reed acknowledged that councils undergoing reorganisation face significant pressure and announced an additional £63 million in support for the 21 affected areas.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage claimed victory, saying the party had successfully defended voters’ rights. The government has agreed to cover the party’s legal costs, reportedly exceeding £100,000.
Photo: Element5 Digital
Leave a Reply