Future Local Lab
Local Government Explained
Local Elections 101: your questions, answered
At the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU), we’re here to demystify the mysterious world of local elections. These are the most important elections of all because it’s the decisions made by councils and councillors that have the most impact on local services and local communities.
We’ve answered your key questions about how local elections in England work. What does No Overall Control mean? What is the point of local elections? Read all about this and more.
Where are this year’s local elections happening in England?
On Thursday, 7 May, local elections will be held in 136 of England’s local authorities – find out where.
What is the point of local elections?
Despite being an integral part of democracy, it’s not always clear exactly what your vote in a local election helps determine for you and your community.
What do I need to know about the 2026 contests?
Our Guide to the local elections in England 2026 goes region by region to highlight the key contests where council control could change hands and large numbers of new councillors could be elected.
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Why were some elections “cancelled”?
We explaing why local and mayoral elections were postponed by the Government in 2025 and 2026.
Why is turnout so low for local elections?
Local councils and councillors hold significant authority over critical services and yet strikingly few voters bother to cast their ballot in council elections.
What happens at an election count?
In four simple steps, we summarise how elections are held and the practice behind each election count which guarantees our democratic system’s integrity.
LGIU member resources
The LGIU is a membership organisation. We empower local government with the capabilities, practical insights and connections to lead change and build a better future for all. Because national success has local foundations.
Is your organisation a member? Then sign up and create your free website account – it’s the key to all your member-only resources. Not a member? Sign up for our free local government newsletters.
What does ‘No Overall Control’ mean?
Almost 30% of councils with elections in 2026 are governed by what is described as ‘No Overall Control’. We explain how that works in practice
What is the view of electoral administrators?
Our research has explored the views of the people who actually run elections, asking for their opinion on the integrity of the electoral system.
What is it like to run elections?
Written before the 2023 local elections, Peter Stanyon, Chief Executive of the Association of Electoral Administrators, reflects on how the role of electoral administrators is changing.
What is the London Assembly?
Operating since 2000, but what does the London Assembly do? And what authority does it hold? Find out here as part of LGIU’s resources and support for local elections.
What is a Combined Authority?
Local government structure in England is a bit like an onion, with many layers, one of which is the combined authority. Want to know what a combined authority does? Read on…
What do Mayors in England actually do?
Confused about all these different mayors in England? This briefing breaks down the difference between council mayors and strategic authority mayors, and explores the different powers and responsibilities that each has.
Local elections 2026
LGIU’s one stop shop for all your local election resources.
