Reform UK Makes Major Gains in English Local Elections
Reform UK won a large number of seats from Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats and the Greens in local council elections held across England. Early results showed Labour losing control of several long-held councils including in areas represented by senior party figures. Voter turnout increased markedly in some districts as results continued to be counted on May 8, 2026.
thecanary.coReform UK recorded substantial gains in local elections held across England, according to results reported on May 8, 2026. Early tallies indicated Reform UK had secured more than 300 additional seats while Labour lost more than 200.
In Wigan, Labour lost all 20 seats it was defending and its vote share fell from 52 percent to 24 percent while Reform took 46 percent.
Voter turnout rose from 30 percent to 40 percent in both Tameside and Wigan. Nigel Farage, speaking in Havering where Reform won seats for the first time, described the results as a historic shift in British politics.
Key Facts
Potential Impact
- 01
Reform UK establishes itself as a durable national political force ahead of the next general election.
- 02
Labour faces internal pressure to change direction following losses in traditional strongholds.
- 03
Increased voter turnout suggests heightened public engagement in local politics.
Transparency Panel
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