Election results so far at a glance – and what’s still to come

Election results so far at a glance – The early council election outcomes overnight have shown a shift in the political landscape, with Reform UK emerging as a notable force. The party has been taking seats from both Labour and the Conservatives, particularly in regions that were once strongholds for the Labour Party. These results are significant, marking the first substantial progress for Reform UK since its inception. The elections across Scotland, Wales, and 136 English councils represent the largest set of contests since the 2024 general election, serving as a crucial test for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership.

While the full extent of the results will be revealed later this week, the initial findings highlight a transformation in local governance. Most councils are not finalizing counts overnight, with results expected to be announced on Friday alongside those for the Senedd and Scottish Parliament. The early momentum for Reform UK is particularly notable in northern England and the Midlands, where the party has secured control in areas like Wigan, Bolton, Salford, and Halton. In Hartlepool, Tameside, Redditch, and Tamworth, Labour has lost power, indicating a growing support base for Reform UK in these regions.

Reform UK’s strategy has been to target former Labour strongholds, capitalizing on local dissatisfaction. This approach has been effective in places such as Brentwood, Tamworth, and North East Lincolnshire, where the party has eroded Conservative influence. However, the Conservatives still hold some ground, as seen in Harlow, Essex, where they maintained control. The party is now focusing on reclaiming key boroughs in London, including Barnet, which had been under Labour’s control since 2022. The success of Reform UK in these areas suggests a broader challenge to traditional political parties, especially in local elections.

Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats are making their own strides in southern England. They have secured control in Stockport and Portsmouth, where they were already the leading party, but have faced setbacks in Hull, where Reform UK’s gains led to their loss of power. The Liberal Democrats are now eyeing Hampshire and Surrey, aiming to expand their influence in councils currently held by the Conservatives. This could be a pivotal moment for the party, as it seeks to consolidate its position in regions traditionally aligned with the Tories.

For the Green Party of England and Wales, the results reflect a growing presence in local politics. The party has gained seats in areas like Salford, Reading, and Exeter, where Labour’s dominance has been challenged. However, their key targets—Hackney and Lewisham in London—will only release results later, meaning their potential impact on the political balance remains uncertain. The Greens are also looking to break into the Senedd, where they hope to secure their first-ever seat, adding to the fragmentation of the political landscape in Wales.

In Wales, the early results suggest a possible decline in Labour’s long-standing dominance. After over a century of being the largest party in Cardiff Bay, Labour faces the risk of losing control to Plaid Cymru and Reform UK. Multiple party sources have informed the BBC that Labour is likely to lose the Senedd election, with Plaid Cymru and Reform UK competing for the top position. The Welsh Liberal Democrats are also seeking to increase their parliamentary representation, aiming to build on their single seat. This shift could signal a broader realignment in Welsh politics, with traditional power dynamics being challenged.

“Multiple party sources have told the BBC they expect to lose the Senedd election.”

Scotland presents another critical test for Labour, as the Scottish National Party (SNP) targets an unprecedented fifth consecutive term. The SNP’s campaign has focused on maintaining their stronghold in the region, while Reform UK, which currently holds no seats in Holyrood, aims to challenge Labour for second place. The Conservatives are also expected to face losses in Scotland, further diminishing their influence. This scenario underscores the SNP’s growing dominance and the potential for Labour to lose its grip on the Scottish electorate.

The early council elections have also highlighted the complexities of the political landscape in areas like Birmingham, where Labour currently runs the council. With all five main parties having a presence, the result could determine whether the city falls under no overall control for the first time in over a decade. This fragmentation is fueled by support for pro-Palestinian independents, which may reshape the local political structure. The outcome in Birmingham could serve as a microcosm of the broader trends affecting local governance across the UK.

As the results continue to roll in, the political implications are becoming clearer. Reform UK’s gains in northern England and the Midlands indicate a strong potential for the party to influence future elections, particularly in county councils such as Essex, Norfolk, and Suffolk. The Conservatives are under pressure to regain control in key areas, including Westminster and Wandsworth, where they previously held sway for decades. Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats are positioning themselves as a major challenger in southern England, with their ambitions extending beyond local councils to the national stage.

The upcoming results for the Senedd and Scottish Parliament will provide further insights into the shifting allegiances. Labour’s performance in Wales could determine whether their dominance in the region is secure, or if the SNP’s strategy will lead to a significant change in the political balance. Similarly, the SNP’s prospects in Scotland are intertwined with their ability to maintain support in the face of Reform UK’s growing influence. The outcome of these elections may also affect the composition of the UK Parliament, with local results influencing national strategies.

The early momentum in the council elections is reshaping the political narrative, with Reform UK and the Liberal Democrats gaining ground against established parties. The Greens are also making their mark, targeting key areas in London where their presence is expected to grow. As the final results emerge, the implications for the future of local and national politics will become more apparent. The fragmented landscape of council elections is a reflection of the changing dynamics in British politics, where new parties and shifting voter preferences are challenging the traditional power structures.