Councils and Elections

Below is a list of councils in our operating area (south east, East Anglia, south and east midlands) with details of the current balance of power, the administration, and the authority’s Local Plan.

If you have any councils where you would like more detailed analysis, please contact us (planning@chelgate.com).

Bedfordshire

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Bedford Borough Council: The whole council is elected every 4 years, with the next election in 2027. At the 2023 election, the council remained under no overall control, with no change in administration. The distribution of power is as follows:

• Labour: 12
• Conservative: 15
• Liberal Democrats: 13
• Green: 4
• Independent: 3

Local Plan: On 8 October 2025, Bedford Borough Council’s Local Plan 2040 was withdraw from examination after the government deemed it unsound, primarily because of fundamental concerns over infrastructure funding to support the growth levels proposed and the impacts of the proposed Universal theme park. 

5-year land housing supply: 3.35 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 576 

 

Central Bedfordshire: The whole council is elected every 4 years. The next election is due in 2027. The current administration is an Independent one. The distribution of power at the recent 2023 election is as follows: 

• Independent Alliance: 28
• Conservative: 20
• Liberal Democrats: 8
• Labour: 4
• Green: 1
• Reform: 2

Local Plan: In May 2025, Central Bedfordshire announced that their first formal stage of engagement (called Regulation 18 or Issues and Options) that will take place in early 2026. 

5-year land housing supply: 4.85 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1626 

 

Berkshire

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Bracknell Forest: The whole council is elected every 4 years, with the next elections in 2027. At the last elections (2023), there was a change in administration with the Labour group taking control of the council. The Conservative group lost 27 seats with Labour gaining 18 seats, the Liberal Democrats gaining 7 and the Greens gaining 2. The current balance of power is:

• Labour: 20
• Conservative: 10
• Liberal Democrats: 7
• Green: 3
• Bracknell Forest Residents Group: 1

Local Plan: The Bracknell Forest Local Plan was adopted on 19 March 2024.

5-year land housing supply: 4.03

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1715

 

Reading Borough Council: Labour lost four seats at the 2026 election but retained an overall majority with 29 of the council’s 48 seats. The Greens increased their representation to 11, while the Conservatives won five seats and the Liberal Democrats three. Reading Borough Council therefore remains under Labour control. The next election is scheduled for 2027.

The political balance is as follows:

• Labour: 29
• Green: 11
• Conservative: 5
• Liberal Democrat: 3

Local Plan: The Reading Borough Local Plan was adopted in November 2019. Currently, they are at the ongoing examination stage for its Local Plan Partial Update, awaiting further clarity and considering its next steps following a Stage 2 letter from the Inspector in June 2026.

5-year housing land supply: 3.55

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2146

 

Slough: In 2023 for the first time the entire council was up for election; previously, a third of the council had been elected three years out of every four. The next election is due in 2027. Against the national trend, the Conservatives made substantial gains, resulting in a change in administration from the Labour-controlled council. The Conservatives gained 15 seats, Labour lost 15, including the leader’s the Liberal Democrats gained 3, while Independents candidates lost all 3 of their seats. The political balance is as follows:

• Conservative: 17
• Labour: 11
• Liberal Democrats: 10
• Green: 1
• Independent: 3

Local Plan: Slough Borough Council is currently preparing a new Slough Local Plan (2026–2046) under the updated national planning system.

5-year land housing supply: 2.5

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2528

 

West Berkshire: The entire council is elected every four years, with the next election in 2027. At the 2023 election, the Liberal Democrats took control of the council, which had been under a Conservative majority since 2005. There was as such a change in administration. The Liberal Democrats gained 13 seats, the Conservatives lost 13, the Greens lost 1 and Labour gained their only seat. The distribution of power is as follows:

• Liberal Democrats: 28
• Conservatives: 11
• Green: 1
• Labour: 1
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: West Berkshire Council has formally started preparing a new Local Plan (WBLP) under the government’s updated planning system.

5-year land housing supply: 5.7

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1523

 

Windsor and Maidenhead: There were no elections in 2026. The Liberal Democrats continue to run the council with an overall majority, having taken control from the Conservatives at the 2023 election. The next election is scheduled for 2027.

The political balance is as follows:

• Conservative: 7
• Liberal Democrat: 21
• Independent: 7
• Borough First Independents: 2
• Old Windsor Residents’ Association: 2
• National Flood Prevention Party: 1
• Reform UK: 1

Local Plan: Currently running a Scoping Consultation for its new Local Plan, which is open for public comments until 13 September 2026. Following the consultation, the formal 30-month plan preparation period and Gateway 1 milestone are expected to commence around late October 2026

5-year housing land supply: 4.69

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2136

 

Wokingham Borough Council: The Liberal Democrats gained one seat at the 2026 election, increasing their representation to 29 and retaining their overall majority. The Conservatives remained on 19 seats, Labour fell to five and the Greens retained one. Wokingham Borough Council therefore remains under Liberal Democrat control. The next election is scheduled for 2027.

The political balance is as follows:

• Liberal Democrat: 29
• Conservative: 19
• Labour: 5
• Green: 1

Local Plan: Wokingham’s current Local Plan Update is undergoing examination, with formal adoption anticipated in 2027. At the same time, due to national changes in the planning system, the council has officially initiated work on a successor strategy known as the Local Plan 2045.

5-year housing land supply: 4.57

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2324

 

Buckinghamshire

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Buckinghamshire Council: On 1 April 2020 Buckinghamshire Council was established as a new unitary authority, replacing the previous two-tier system of the Buckinghamshire County Council and the four district councils of Aylesbury Vale, Chiltern, South Bucks, and Wycombe.

The last election was held in 2025, when the Conservatives lost over 50 seats but were able to retain a slim majority of the council seats and currently control the council. The next election is scheduled for 2029.

The distribution of power is as follows

• Conservative: 50
• Liberal Democrats: 26
• Labour: 3
• Green: 2
• Reform: 2
• Independents: 12
• Wycombe Independent: 2

Local Plan: The Council are on track to publish their Regulation 19 in July/September 2026. Submission of a new Local Plan to the inspectorate is on track for December 2026.

5-year land housing supply:

• Chiltern: 0.75
• South Bucks: 0.89
• Wycombe: 1.98
• Aylesbury Vale: 2.44

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1577

 

Milton Keynes: After the 2026 election Milton Keynes saw one of the more significant political shifts in the region. Labour lost 11 seats, falling from 30 councillors to 19, while Reform entered the council with nine seats. Although the council remains under no overall control, the existing Labour–Liberal Democrat coalition has agreed to continue. However, with the Liberal Democrats now the largest party within the administration, they have taken over the council leadership. 

The political balance is as follows: 

• Labour: 19
• Liberal Democrat: 20
• Conservative: 12
• Reform: 9

Local Plan: In April 2026 Milton Keynes City Plan 2050 was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for Examination and a Planning Inspector has been appointed. 

5-year land housing supply: 7.31 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2389 

 

Cambridgeshire

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Cambridge City Council:  The council is elected in thirds every year. The next election will take place in 2027.  Following the 2026 elections Labour lost its majority after losing six seats but were able to form a minority Labour administration with 41% of the council seats. The Greens were also major beneficiaries, doubling their seats.

The political balance is as follows: 

• Labour: 17
• Green: 12
• Liberal Democrats: 11
• Conservative: 1
• Your Party: 1

Local Plan: Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council are working together to create the first joint Local Plan for Greater Cambridge. They are now processing all comments received during the Winter 2025 consultation and will be considering these in the preparation of the proposed submission version of the Local Plan. It is the intention that this version of the plan will be consulted on during Summer 2026 ahead of Submission to the Secretary of State for Independent Examination in December 2026.  

5-year land housing supply: 6.1 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 529 

 

East Cambridgeshire:  The whole council is elected every 4 years, with the next election in 2027. At the 2023 election, the Conservatives retained their majority, with no change in administration.  

The distribution of power is: 

• Liberal Democrats and Independent Group: 13
• Conservative and Independent Group: 15

Local Plan: East Cambridgeshire District Council decided at a meeting of its Full Council on 25 February 2025 to put on hold plans to prepare the new Local Plan for East Cambridgeshire of State for Independent Examination in December 2026.  

5-year land housing supply: 6.48 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 622 

 

South Cambridgeshire: The council is elected as a whole every four years, with the next scheduled election in 2030. following the 2026 elections the Liberal Democrats increased their majority by gaining six seats, while the Conservatives lost six. This reinforced its position as a Liberal Democrat stronghold, with 98% of the total number of council seats.

The political balance is as follows:

• Liberal Democrats: 43
• Conservative: 2

Local Plan: Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council are working together to create the first joint Local Plan for Greater Cambridge. They are now processing all comments received during the Winter 2025 consultation and will be considering these in the preparation of the proposed submission version of the Local Plan. It is the intention that this version of the plan will be consulted on during Summer 2026 ahead of Submission to the Secretary of State for Independent Examination in December 2026.  

5-year land housing supply: 6.1 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1735 

 

Huntingdonshire: The council is elected in full every four years, with the next scheduled election in 2030. Before the May 2026 election the council had no overall control and was run by a joint administration of Liberal Democrats, Green Party and HDC Independents.  

Huntingdonshire remained under no overall control following the 2026 elections. Reform made substantial gains, winning 10 seats, but the council continues to be run by a coalition of Liberal Democrats, Greens and HDC Independents. The election result may, however, lead to new political alliances over the coming year. 

The political balance is as follows:

• Liberal Democrats: 20
• Conservative: 15
• Reform: 10
• HDC Independent Group: 2
• Cambs Independent Group: 1
• Green: 2
• Labour: 1
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: The Local Plan to 2046 is intended to be submitted to Planning Inspectorate by the end of December 2026. 

5-year land housing supply: 3.94 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 858 

 

Peterborough City: The council is elected in thirds every year. The next election will take place in 2027. At the May 2026 election, the council remained under no overall control and is unlikely to see a change in administration. 

The council remains under no overall control after the 2026 elections. The existing administration of Labour, Liberal Democrats and Peterborough First continues, although Labour lost seats and Reform increased its representation. The political balance will be interesting to watch ahead of further elections in 2027.

The political balance is as follows:

• Labour: 11
• Liberal Democrats: 8
• Reform: 5
• Conservative: 13
• Green: 6
• Independent and others: 17

Local Plan:  Peterborough Council are currently consulting on an alternative site and preparing the submission version scheduled for public consultation in September – October 2026. 

5-year land housing supply: 4.88 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1219 

 

Essex

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Essex County Council: Reform UK took control at the 2026 election, winning 53 seats and ending 25 years of Conservative control. The Conservatives fell from 50 seats to 13, while the Liberal Democrats won five and Labour one. Essex County Council is now run by a Reform UK majority administration. The Conservatives gained Rayleigh West from Reform UK at a byelection on 18 June.

The political balance is as follows:

• Conservative: 14
• Liberal Democrat: 5
• Labour: 1
• Reform UK: 52
• Green: 1
• Residents’ Association: 1
• Independent: 3

Local Plan: N/A

5-year housing land supply: N/A

Housing delivery (2024-25): N/A

 

Basildon Council: Basildon remained under no overall control following the 2026 election. Labour fell from 16 seats to 12, the Conservatives remained on 13 and Reform UK increased its representation from two seats to 11. The council continues to be run by a Labour and independent administration.

The political balance is as follows:

• Labour: 12
• Conservative: 13
• Reform UK: 11
• Independent: 7
• Wickford Independents: 3
• Non-aligned: 4

Local Plan: In September 2026 Basildon Borough Council launched its Regulation 19 Consultation (ending 22 September) for its new draft local plan following a direct intervention and strict deadline set by the government.

5-year housing land supply: 2.05

Housing delivery (2024-25): 3123

 

Rochford District Council: Rochford remained under no overall control following the 2026 election. Reform UK entered the council with 13 seats and became the largest group, while the Conservatives fell to seven, the Liberal Democrats to five and the Rochford District Residents to four. The council continues to be run by a Conservative and Rochford District Residents administration. The Conservatives gained Sweyne Park and Grange from Reform UK at a byelection on 18 June.

The political balance is as follows:

• Conservative: 8
• Rochford District Residents: 4
• Liberal Democrat: 5
• Non-aligned: 3
• Associated Independents: 3
• Reform UK: 12
• Rochford and Foulness Wakering Independents: 3
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: Rochford District Council is preparing to move its controversial draft Local Plan toward a Regulation 19 public consultation. 

5-year housing land supply: 5.15

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1075

 

Harlow District Council: The Conservatives retained control at the 2026 election with 22 seats. Harlow District Council therefore remains under a Conservative majority administration.

• Conservatives: 22
• Labour: 10
• Reform: 1

Local Plan: Harlow‘s current Local Plan was officially adopted in December 2020, and guides growth and development in the town up to 2033.

5-year housing land supply: 5.02

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1224

 

Chelmsford City Council: The Liberal Democrats retained control at the 2026 election with 31 seats. Chelmsford City Council therefore remains under a Liberal Democrat majority administration.

• Conservative: 18
• Liberal Democrat: 31
• Reform: 2
• Independent: 4
• Chelmsford Independents Group: 2

Local Plan: Chelmsford‘s updated Local Plan review was formally submitted to the Secretary of State for an Independent Examination on June 5, 2026.

5-year housing land supply: 4.74

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2420

 

Epping Forest District Council: Epping Forest remained under no overall control following the 2026 election, with the Conservatives becoming the largest group on 19 seats. Roger Baldwin (Loughton Forest) and Louise Mead (Loughton Fairmead) moved from Loughton Residents’ Association to Residents 4 Loughton in June 2026.

• Conservatives: 19
• Reform: 12
• Liberal Democrat: 6
• Labour: 1
• Loughton Residents Association: 10
• Epping Forest Independents Group: 3
• Residents 4 Loughton: 2
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: The Epping Forest District Local Plan was officially adopted on March 6, 2023, but the district’s planning landscape is currently facing major tensions, government intervention, and ongoing reviews.

5-year housing land supply: 4.22

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1509

 

Colchester City Council: Colchester remained under no overall control following the 2026 election, with the Conservatives becoming the largest group on 18 seats and running the council with a minority.

• Conservative: 18
• Liberal Democrat: 12
• Labour: 9
• Reform: 5
• Green: 3
• Independent: 4

Local Plan: Regulation 19 consultation for the Colchester Local Plan submission draft, which runs until 13 October 2026. Representations collected will be reported to the Local Plan Committee in November 2026, followed by submission to the Secretary of State for an independent planning inspector’s examination expected in early 2027

5-year housing land supply: 5.25

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2762

 

Braintree District Council: The Conservatives retained control at the 2026 election with 25 seats. Braintree District Council therefore remains under a Conservative majority administration.

• Conservatives: 30
• Labour: 9
• Green: 4
• Reform: 1
• Halstead Residents Association: 3
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: Braintree District Council’s updated Local Plan review is moving to a Regulation 19 Pre-Submission consultation in late September 2026.

5-year housing land supply: 5.32

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2154

 

Uttlesford District Council: Uttlesford remained under no overall control following the 2026 election. Residents for Uttlesford and independent councillors continued to hold a significant share of the seats, and the council is run as a minority administration.

• Resident for Uttlesford: 18
• Conservatives: 12
• Liberal Democrat: 3
• Reform: 3
• Uttlesford Independent Group: 2
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: Uttlesford District Council adopted its New Local Plan 2021-2041 on Wednesday, 25 March 2026.

5-year housing land supply: 4.12

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2051

 

Hampshire

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Hampshire County Council: The Conservatives lost their majority at the 2026 election but remained the largest party with 27 seats. The Liberal Democrats increased their representation to 26 and Reform UK won 20 seats. The council is under no overall control and is run by a Conservative minority administration, which secured the council leadership with support from three Reform UK councillors and one independent.

The political balance is as follows:

• Liberal Democrat: 26
• Conservative: 27
• Reform UK: 20
• Independents and others: 2
• Labour: 1
• Green: 1
• Residents’ Association: 1

Local Plan: N/A

5-year housing land supply: N/A

Housing delivery (2024-25): N/A

 

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: The Independent Forum remained the largest group after the 2026 election, increasing its representation to 18 seats. The Conservatives fell to 11 seats, Reform UK increased to three and the Greens increased to two. The council remains under no overall control and is run by a coalition of the Independent Forum, Liberal Democrats and Greens. The next election is scheduled for 2027.

The political balance is as follows:

• Liberal Democrat: 10
• Conservative: 11
• Reform UK: 3
• Independent Forum and independents: 18
• Labour: 10
• Green: 2

Local Plan: In September 2026. Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is considering a proposal to scrap its current draft Local Plan and start fresh following a six-month data delay from South East Water.

5-year housing land supply: 3.2

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2558

 

Hart: One-third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 11 ward seats were contested on 4 May 2023. There was no change in administration, with no seat changes. There was no change in administration: the council remains under no overall control, being run by a coalition of the Liberal Democrats and Community Campaign Hart.

The current distribution of power is:

• Conservatives: 8
• Liberal Democrats: 13
• Community Campaign Hart: 10
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: Hart is at an early stage of preparing its new Local Plan 2044, having completed the initial scoping consultation in June 2026. The 30-month process formally begins on 30 September, with consultation on the draft vision and proposed spatial strategy scheduled for 19 October to 30 November 2026, and adoption targeted for October 2028.

5-year land housing supply: 1.8

Housing delivery (2024-25): 891

 

Hertfordshire

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Hertfordshire County Council did not hold its scheduled election in May 2026. The election was postponed as part of the government’s planned local government reorganisation and devolution proposals.

Dacorum Borough Council: Dacorum remained under no overall control following the 2026 election, with the Conservatives becoming the largest group on 18 seats.

• Liberal Democrats: 19
• Conservatives: 18
• Labour: 4
• Independent: 10

Local Plan: Dacorum is advancing two separate local plans: the Dacorum Local Plan to 2041 is currently undergoing public examination by independent Planning Inspectors, while a new Future Local Plan targeting 2045 has just opened for its initial scoping consultation.

5-year housing land supply: 3.2

Housing delivery (2024-25): 3051

 

St Albans City and District Council: The Liberal Democrats increased their representation to 44 seats at the 2026 election and retained their overall majority. St Albans City and District Council therefore remains under Liberal Democrat control.

The political balance is as follows:

• Liberal Democrat: 44
• Conservative: 5
• Labour: 2
• Green: 3
• Independent: 2

Local Plan: The St Albans City and District Council has officially adopted its long-awaited new Local Plan (Local Plan 2041) following a full council vote and the receipt of the final Inspectors’ Report.

5-year housing land supply: 1.12

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2662

 

Broxbourne: One-third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 10 ward seats were contested at the 2023 election, in which there was no change in administration. The next election will take place in May 2024.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservatives: 27
• Labour: 3

Local Plan: The council agreed to prepare a new Local Plan in September 2025 and completed a call for sites in January 2026. It remains at the early evidence-gathering and site-assessment stage, with a detailed formal timetable not yet published.

5-year land housing supply: 2.13

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1362

 

East Hertfordshire: The whole council is elected every 4 years. Before the 2023 election, the Conservatives had been in control since 1999. They lost 24 seats, with the Greens gaining 17, the Liberal Democrats gaining 4 and Labour 3. The result was a change in administration, as the council is now under no overall control, but led by the Greens and Liberal Democrats in a coalition administration. The next election will take place in 2027.

• Green: 15
• Conservatives: 14
• Liberal Democrats: 10
• Labour: 5
• Reform: 2
• Independents: 3
• Vacant: 1

Local Plan: The council agreed to prepare a new Local Plan in September 2025 and completed a call for sites in January 2026. It remains at the early evidence-gathering and site-assessment stage, with a detailed formal timetable not yet published.

5-year land housing supply: 2.13

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1362

 

Hertsmere: The whole council is elected every 4 years. The Conservatives had held a majority since 1999, but following the 2023 election, there was a change in administration, as the council fell under no overall control. A Labour and Liberal Democrat coalition leads the council. The next election will take place in 2027.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservatives: 15
• Labour: 12
• Liberal Democrats: 7
• Reform: 2
• Independent: 3

Local Plan: The Regulation 18 consultation closed on 29 May 2026 and the council is reviewing responses before publishing its Regulation 19 plan later this year. It must submit the plan for examination by 31 December 2026 to remain under the existing plan-making system.

5-year land housing supply: 0.98

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2181

 

North Hertfordshire: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 16 ward seats were contested at the 2023 election. There was no change in administration, and the council remained under no overall control. Labour overtook the Conservatives to become the largest party, and the council is run by a Labour and Liberal Democrat coalition administration. The next election will take place in May 2024, and the election cycle will change, with whole council elections taking place every four years.

The distribution of power is:

• Labour: 23
• Conservatives: 7
• Liberal Democrats: 20
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: The initial scoping consultation closed in June 2026, with Gateway 1 scheduled for 9 October and the plan content and evidence consultation running from 13 October to 24 November 2026. Adoption is targeted for 5 January 2029.

5-year land housing supply: 2.6

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1910

 

Stevenage: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 13 ward seats were contested at the 2026 elections. There was no change in administration, as Labour retained their majority. The next election will be made in May 2027.

The distribution of power is:

• Labour: 21
• Reform: 10
• Conservatives: 1
• Liberal Democrats: 6
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: The partial update to the Stevenage Borough Local Plan 2011–2031 was adopted on 22 July 2026 following examination, meaning its updated policies now form part of the development plan.

5-year land housing supply: 5.91

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1219

 

Three Rivers: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 13 ward seats were contested at the 2026 elections. There was no change in administration, despite the Liberal Democrats losing their majority. The next elections will be held in 2027.

The distribution of power is:

• Liberal Democrats: 18
• Conservatives: 14
• Labour: 2
• Green: 3
• Independent: 2

Local Plan: The Local Plan 2026–2042 is currently at Regulation 19, with consultation running until 25 September 2026. The council intends to submit it for independent examination in late 2026.

5-year land housing supply: 1.7

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1910

 

Watford: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 12 ward seats were contested at the 2026 elections. There was no change in administration, as the Liberal Democrats retained their majority. The next elections will be held in 2027.

The distribution of power is:

• Liberal Democrats: 33
• Labour: 4

Local Plan: Its Local Plan 2021–2038 was adopted in October 2022; work on the next plan remains at the early evidence-gathering/background-studies stage.

5-year land housing supply: 5.44

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2349

 

Welwyn Hatfield: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 16 ward seats were contested at the 2026 election. There was no change in administration with Labour and the Liberal Democrats in control of the council as a coalition. The next elections are scheduled for 2027.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservatives: 12
• Liberal Democrats: 15
• Labour: 16
• Reform: 3
• Independent: 2

Local Plan: The new Local Plan to 2043 completed its initial Regulation 18 consultation in March 2026, and the council is now considering responses before preparing the more detailed Regulation 19 publication plan.

5-year land housing supply: 2.3

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2291

 

Kent

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Ashford: The whole council is elected every 4 years. The Conservatives retained their majority, although did lose 7 seats. There was no change in administration. The next elections are scheduled for 2027.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservatives: 16
• Labour: 7
• Ashford Independents: 12
• Green: 12

Local Plan: Ashford is also at an early stage of preparing its new Local Plan 2043, with its initial scoping consultation running until 23 September 2026. Gateway 1 is due in October, followed by consultation on the proposed strategy and evidence from 23 November 2026 to 11 January 2027, with adoption targeted for March 2028.

5-year land housing supply: 4.39

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2782

 

Canterbury: The whole council is elected every 4 years. In April 2023, 4 Conservative councillors left the party to form the ‘Independent Serve to Lead Group’, pushing the council under no overall control a month before the election. The Conservatives lost further seats at the election with Labour becoming the largest party. There was therefore a change in administration, with a Labour and Liberal Democrat coalition forming. The next elections are scheduled for 2027.

The distribution of power is:

• Labour: 18
• Liberal Democrats: 8
• Conservatives: 8
• Greens: 4
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: Canterbury’s Regulation 19 consultation closed on 18 May 2026, and the council is now analysing the representations before submitting the Local Plan and supporting documents for independent examination. Submission is scheduled between September and December 2026.

5-year land housing supply: 4.16

Housing delivery (2024-25): 3345

 

Dartford: The whole council is elected every 4 years. At the 2023 election, the Conservatives retained their majority, and there was no change in administration. The next elections are scheduled for 2027.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservatives: 28
• Labour: 10
• Independent: 2
• Reform: 2

Local Plan: The Dartford Plan to 2037 was adopted on 22 April 2024 and remains the up-to-date statutory plan.

5-year land housing supply: 5.6

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2330

 

Dover: The whole council is elected every 4 years. At the 2023 elections, the Conservatives lost their majority with the loss of 5 seats. Labour gained control of the council, resulting in a change in administration.

The distribution of power is:

• Labour: 12
• Conservatives: 13
• Independent: 4
• Non-Aligned: 2

Local Plan: The Dover District Local Plan to 2040 was adopted on 16 October 2024 and remains the up-to-date statutory plan.

5-year land housing supply: 5

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1779

 

Gravesham: The whole council is elected every 4 years. Prior to the 2023 election, there was no party majority. Labour gained control of the council, resulting in a change in administration.

The distribution of power is:

• Labour: 22
• Conservatives: 12
• Reform: 5

Local Plan: The Local Plan 2042 has completed its Regulation 19 consultation. The council is now reviewing the responses before submitting the plan for independent examination.

5-year land housing supply: 3

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2069

 

Maidstone Borough Council: There were no elections in Maidstone in 2026. The council remains under no overall control and continues to be run by an alliance of the Liberal Democrats, Greens and independents. The next election is scheduled for 2028.

The political balance is as follows:

• Reform UK: 3
• Green and Independent Alliance: 11
• Conservative: 13
• Labour: 6
• Liberal Democrat: 12
• Independent: 4

Local Plan: The Maidstone Borough Local Plan Review 2021-2038 was adopted on 20 March 2024. In October 2025 the Council’s cabinet approved to commence work on the preparation of a New Local Plan. In August 2026 the New Local Plan Call for Sites 2026 closed.

5-year housing land supply: 4.5

Housing delivery (2024-25): 3000

 

Medway: The whole council is elected every 4 years. There was a change in administration at the 2023 elections, with Labour gaining control of the council from the Conservatives for the first time since 1998. The next election will be held in 2027.

The distribution of power is:

• Labour: 31
• Conservatives: 17
• Independent: 8
• Reform: 3

Local Plan: Medway is at the independent examination stage, having submitted its Local Plan 2041 to the Secretary of State in December 2025. The first phase of examination hearings began on 15 September 2026, with a second phase expected in November

5-year land housing supply: 2.3

Housing delivery (2024-25): 5000

 

Sevenoaks: The whole council is elected every 4 years. At the 2023 elections, there was no change to administration, although a significant shift in seat share. The Conservatives retained their majority, but lost 13 seats, while the Liberal Democrats gained 11. The Greens gained 4 seats after having no seat share at the last election, while Labour lost their only seat.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservatives: 27
• Liberal Democrats: 14
• Green: 4
• West Kent Independent Group: 5
• Reform: 2
• North Sevenoaks District Independent Group: 2

Local Plan: Sevenoaks is at the Regulation 19 stage, with consultation on its proposed Local Plan 2027–2042 which closed on 17 September 2026. The council intends to submit the plan and consultation responses for independent examination by the end of 2026.

5-year land housing supply: 3.59

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2130

 

Folkestone and Hythe: The whole council is elected every 4 years. Prior to the 2023 election, the council was led by a minority Conservative administration. There was a significant shift in seat share in 2023: the Greens became the largest party, although cam short of gaining control of the council. There was a change in administration, with the Greens and Liberal Democrats forming a minority administration.

The distribution of power is:

• Green: 11
• Labour:8
• Conservatives: 5
• Liberal Democrats: 2
• Reform: 1
• Independents: 3

Local Plan: Folkestone and Hythe is at the very beginning of preparing its new Local Plan 2045. The initial scoping consultation is open until 16 October 2026, with consultation on the draft plan expected during 2027.

5-year land housing supply: 3.1

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1979

 

Swale: The whole council is elected every 4 years. Prior to the 2023 election, the council was under no overall control. The Conservatives were the largest party, with the council being led by a rainbow coalition of all the other parties. Following the election, the council remained under no overall control, with Labour becoming the largest party. There was a change in administration, with Labour, the Swale Independents and the Greens forming a coalition.

The distribution of power is:

• Labour: 15
• Conservatives: 10
• Swale Independents: 8
• Liberal Democrats: 5
• Reform: 4
• Green: 2
• Independent: 2
• Restore: 1

Local Plan: Swale is at the Regulation 19 stage, with consultation on its proposed Local Plan with the deadline on 21 September 2026. The council then intends to submit the plan for independent examination between October and December 2026, with adoption expected in 2027.

5-year land housing supply: 3.97

Housing delivery (2024-25): 3109

 

Thanet: The whole council is elected every 4 years. Prior to the election, the council was under no overall control, led by a Conservative minority administration. There was a change in administration, with Labour gaining control of the council.

The new distribution of power is:

• Labour: 30
• Conservatives: 13
• Independents: 2
• Reform: 5
• Green: 6

Local Plan: Thanet is at the earliest stage of preparing its new Local Plan, with a scoping consultation underway until 9 October 2026. This will inform the first draft of the plan, which the council will consult on at a later stage under the new plan-making process.

5-year land housing supply: 3.78

Housing delivery (2024-25): 3451

 

Tonbridge and Malling: The whole council is elected every 4 years. Prior to the 2023 election, the Conservatives held a strong majority. There was a change in administration, with the council falling under no overall control. The Conservatives and Independent Alliance formed a coalition administration.

The new distribution of power is:

• Conservatives: 21
• Liberal Democrats: 11
• Green: 8
• Labour: 2
• Independent Alliance: 2

Local Plan: Tonbridge and Malling’s new Local Plan is at Regulation 19, with consultation open from 11 September to 25 October 2026 following government direction. After consultation, the council must submit the plan to the Secretary of State for independent examination.

5-year land housing supply: 2.96

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2485

 

Norfolk

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Norfolk County Council: The Conservatives lost control at the 2026 election, falling from 58 seats to eight. Reform UK became the largest group with 40 seats but did not secure an overall majority. Norfolk County Council is therefore under no overall control.

The political balance is as follows:

• Conservative: 8
• Liberal Democrat: 13
• Labour: 1
• Reform UK: 40
• Green: 12
• Vacant: 1
• Independent and others: 10

Local Plan: N/A

5-year housing land supply: N/A

Housing delivery (2024-25): N/A

 

Breckland: The entire council is elected every four years. At the 2023 election, there was no change in administration, with the Conservatives retaining their majority. The next election will be held in 2027.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservative: 29
• Labour: 9
• Independents: 5
• Reform: 5
• Green: 1

Local Plan: Breckland’s new Local Plan is at Regulation 19, with consultation open until 23 September 2026. The council intends to submit it for examination by 31 December 2026, with adoption provisionally expected in June 2028.

5-year land housing supply: 2.82

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1841

 

Broadland: The entire council is elected every four years. At the 2023 election, there was a change in administration, with the Conservatives losing their majority. The council is now under no overall control, run by a coalition of the Liberal Democrats, Labour and Greens.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservative: 29
• Labour: 9
• Reform: 5
• Green: 4
• Independent: 2

Local Plan: Broadland is at the initial scoping stage of preparing the Greater Norwich Local Plan 2045 jointly with Norwich and South Norfolk. A scoping consultation is running from 17 August to 28 September 2026, following call-for-sites exercises earlier this year.

5-year land housing supply: 3.99

Housing delivery (2024-25): 5902

 

Great Yarmouth: The entire council is elected every four years. At the 2023 election, there was a change in administration. The Conservatives lost their majority, with the council falling under no overall control. A minority Conservative administration formed after the election.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservative: 18
• Labour: 18
• Independent: 3

Local Plan: Great Yarmouth is at the initial scoping and call-for-sites stage of preparing its next Local Plan for 2026–2045. The consultation opened on 24 August and runs until 5 October 2026.

5-year land housing supply: 5.82

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1074

 

King’s Lynn and West Norfolk: The whole council is elected every four years. At the 2023 election, there was a change in administration, with the Conservatives losing their majority. The council is under no overall control and is run by a coalition of the independent councillors, Labour and Liberal Democrats.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservative: 17
• Independent: 24
• Labour: 5
• Liberal Democrats: 2
• Reform: 7

Local Plan: King’s Lynn and West Norfolk is at the initial scoping stage of preparing its Local Plan 2026–2044, with consultation running until 29 September 2026. Further consultation on the plan’s evidence and initial proposals is expected in spring 2027, with adoption targeted for May 2029.

5-year land housing supply: 6.24

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1692

 

North Norfolk: The whole council is elected every four years. At the 2023 election, there was no change in administration. The Liberal Democrats retained their majority.

The distribution of power is:

• Liberal Democrat: 26
• Conservative: 11
• Independent: 3

Local Plan: North Norfolk has completed the initial scoping and call-for-sites consultations for its new Local Plan, which ran from 20 July to 31 August 2026. The formal 30-month preparation period is due to begin at Gateway 1 on 31 October 2026, with the plan covering 2029–2045

5-year land housing supply: 7

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1678

 

Norwich City: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 13 ward seats were contested at the 2026 election. There was a change in administration, with Labour losing their majority and the Greens now in charge.

The distribution of power is:

• Green: 21
• Labour: 12
• Liberal Democrat: 3
• Reform: 2
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: Norwich City is at the initial scoping stage of preparing the Greater Norwich Local Plan 2045 jointly with Broadland and South Norfolk. The scoping consultation runs from 17 August to 28 September 2026, following call-for-sites exercises earlier this year.

5-year land housing supply: 4.37

Housing delivery (2024-25): 5902

 

 

South Norfolk: The entire council is elected every four years. At the 2023 election, there was no change to administration, with the Conservatives retaining their majority.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservative: 23
• Liberal Democrat: 9
• Labour: 9
• Independent:4
• Green: 1

Local Plan: South Norfolk is at the initial scoping stage of preparing the Greater Norwich Local Plan 2045 jointly with Norwich and Broadland. The scoping consultation runs from 17 August to 28 September 2026, following call-for-sites exercises earlier this year.

5-year land housing supply: 5.87

Housing delivery (2024-25): 5902

 

Northamptonshire 

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North Northamptonshire: On 1 April 2021 North Northamptonshire Council was established as a new unitary authority, replacing the previous two-tier system of the Northamptonshire County Council and the four district councils of Corby, East Northamptonshire, Kettering, and Wellingborough. 

The last election was held in 2025 where Reform won an outright majority and currently control the council. There were no elections in 2026. Reform secured an outright majority at the 2025 election and continues to control North Northamptonshire Council with 52% of the total number of council seats. The authority remains one of Reform’s strongest local government bases in the Midlands with the next election scheduled in 2029. 

• Reform: 40
• Conservative: 11
• Green: 8
• Labour: 4
• Liberal Democrats: 1
• Independents: 3
• Restore Britain: 1

Local Plan: From May to July 2026 North Northamptonshire Council launched its Local Plan Scoping consultation seeking views on what it could include in the North Northamptonshire Local Plan, and they will approach future local plan engagement. A summary of the scoping consultation responses will be published, and feedback received will inform the next stage in the plan-making process which is the consultation on the Proposed Local Plan Content and Evidence, scheduled for October to November 2026. 

5-year land housing supply: 4.6 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2185

 

West Northamptonshire: An inaugural election for the council was held in May 2021, after the merging of three local councils (Daventry, Northampton, South Northamptonshire) into one unitary authority. The last election was held in 2025 where Reform won an outright majority and currently control the council. The next election is scheduled for 2029. 

No elections took place in West Northamptonshire this year. Reform retains the outright majority of 40 seats, with 57% of the total number council seats, it secured in 2025 and continues to run the council. The authority remains firmly under Reform control ahead of the next scheduled election in 2029. 

• Reform: 39
• Conservative: 17
• Labour: 8
• Liberal Democrats: 8
• The Independent Group: 3
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: In March 2026 Regulation 18 closed and the Council are currently and analysing the feedback received and will use it to inform the next stage of plan making process. 

5-year land housing supply: 4.6 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1773 

 

Oxfordshire

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Cherwell: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 18 ward seats were contested in the 2026 election. Cherwell District Council saw no change in administration following the 2026 elections. The existing coalition of Liberal Democrats, Greens and Independent councillors continues. The Liberal Democrats strengthened their position as the largest group, gaining four seats, while both Labour and the Conservatives lost four seats each. Reform gained six seats and secured representation on the council for the first time.

The new distribution of power is: 

• Liberal Democrats: 21
• Labour: 8
• Conservative: 8
• Reform: 6
• Green: 4
• Independent and others: 1

Local Plan:  The Cherwell District Council’s Local Plan Review 2042 is currently being examined and is expected to be adopted either later this year or early 2027.  

5-year land housing supply: 4.30 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 717 

 

South Oxfordshire: The whole council is elected every 4 years. The next election will be on 6 May 2027, and the Council is currently led by a Liberal Democrats.  

• Liberal Democrats: 20
• Labour: 3
• Green: 8
• Conservative: 1
• Henley Residents’ Group: 3
• Independent: 1

Local Plan:  South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse district councils are working together on a Joint Local Plan 2041. This Joint Local Plan is expected to adopted later this year.  

5-year land housing supply: 3.64 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 794 

 

Vale of White Horse: The whole council is elected every 4 years and the next election will be 6 May 2027. The Liberal Democrats dominate the Council and as there were no elections in 2026 there was no change in administration. 

The distribution of power is: 

• Liberal Democrats: 31
• Green: 3
• Conservative: 1
• Independent Voice for Vale councillors: 2
• Independent: 1

Local Plan:  South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse district councils are working together on a Joint Local Plan 2041. This Joint Local Plan is expected to adopted later this year.  

5-year land housing supply: 5.51 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1193 

 

West Oxfordshire: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 17 ward seats were contested at the 2026 election. There was no change in administration: the council remained under no overall control, with the same coalition of Liberal Democrats, Labour and Greens continuing to run the council. 

The distribution of power is: 

• Liberal Democrats: 20
• Conservative: 16
• Labour: 8
• Green: 4
• Reform: 1

Local Plan:  West Oxfordshire are currently working on a Local Plan 2043. Most recently, they consulted on a series of preferred spatial options over a six week period from 3 November – 22 December 2025.  

5-year land housing supply: 3.64 

Housing delivery (2024-25): 794 

 

Suffolk

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Suffolk County Council: Reform UK took control from the Conservatives at the 2026 election, winning 41 seats. The Conservatives fell from 55 seats to nine, while the Greens increased their representation to 13. Suffolk County Council is now run by a Reform UK majority administration.

The political balance is as follows:

• Conservative: 9
• Liberal Democrat: 2
• Labour: 3
• Reform UK: 41
• Green: 13
• Vacant: 5
• Independent and others: 2

Local Plan: N/A

5-year housing land supply: N/A

Housing delivery (2024-25): N/A

 

Babergh: The whole council is elected every four years. At the 2023 election, There was no change in administration, as the council remained under no overall control. The Greens replaced the Conservatives as the largest party.

The distribution of power is:

• Green: 10
• Independents: 9
• Conservative: 7
• Liberal Democrats: 5
• Labour:1

Local Plan: Babergh is preparing a new Joint Local Plan to 2045 with Mid Suffolk and has completed its initial scoping consultation, which ran from 5 June to 31 July 2026. Consultation on the plan’s proposed content and evidence is expected in early 2027, with adoption targeted for April 2029.

5-year land housing supply: 5.34

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1232

 

Mid Suffolk: The whole council is elected every four years. At the 2023 election, there was a change in administration, with the Greens gaining majority; the council has previously been under no overall control. The next election is scheduled for 2027.

The distribution of power is:

• Green: 23
• Conservative: 3
• Liberal Democrat: 4
• Independent: 4

Local Plan: Mid Suffolk is preparing a new Joint Local Plan to 2045 with Babergh and has completed its initial scoping consultation, which ran from 5 June to 31 July 2026. Consultation on the proposed plan content and evidence is expected in early 2027, with adoption targeted for April 2029.

5-year land housing supply: 10.46

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1583

 

East Suffolk: The whole council is elected every four years. At the 2023 election, there was a change in administration, with the Conservatives losing their majority. The council fell under no overall control, with the Greens as the new largest party.

The distribution of power is:

• Green: 16
• Conservative: 15
• Labour: 11
• Liberal Democrat: 9
• Independent: 4

Local Plan: East Suffolk has completed the initial scoping consultation for its new Local Plan 2026–2045 and is now considering the responses and developing its evidence base. Consultation on the proposed content and evidence is expected in May–June 2027, with adoption targeted for 2029.

5-year land housing supply: 3.09

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2713

 

West Suffolk: The whole council is elected every four years. At the 2023 election, there was a change in administration: the Conservatives lost their majority, and the council fell under no overall control. Labour and Independents are in coalition and run the council.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservative: 24
• West Suffolk Progressive Alliance Grouping: 19
• Independents: 15
• Reform: 3
• Green: 2
• Liberal Democrat: 1

Local Plan: The Local Plan 2045 has also completed scoping and is due to reach Gateway 1 in October 2026. Consultation on proposed content is planned for May–June 2027, with adoption expected in May 2029.

5-year land housing supply: 6.2

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2351

 

Ipswich: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 16 seats were contested at the 2026 elections. There was no change in administration, as Labour retained their majority.

The distribution of power is:

• Labour: 29
• Reform: 10
• Conservative: 5
• Liberal Democrat: 3
• Green: 1

Local Plan: The new Local Plan 2026–2045 has completed its initial scoping consultation and is approaching Gateway 1 in October 2026. Consultation on the plan’s proposed content is scheduled for September 2027, with adoption targeted for April 2029.

5-year land housing supply: 3.46

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1068

 

Surrey

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West Surrey: The Liberal Democrats won 56 seats at the inaugural 2026 election, comfortably exceeding the 46 seats needed for an overall majority. The Conservatives won 20 seats, Reform UK nine, residents’ associations four and independents one, while Labour did not secure any representation. The West Surrey Shadow Authority is therefore controlled by the Liberal Democrats. The new unitary council will replace the existing county, district and borough councils in 2027, with the next election scheduled for 2029.

The political balance is as follows:

• Reform UK: 9
• Conservative: 20
• Liberal Democrat: 56
• Residents’ associations: 4
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: N/A

5-year land housing supply: N/A

Housing delivery (2024-25): N/A

 

East Surrey: The Liberal Democrats won 40 seats at the inaugural 2026 election and secured an overall majority. The Conservatives fell to 10 seats, while Reform UK won five, the Greens eight, residents’ associations five and independents four. The East Surrey Shadow Authority is therefore controlled by the Liberal Democrats. The new unitary council will replace the existing county, district and borough councils in 2027, with the next election scheduled for 2029.

The political balance is as follows:

• Reform UK: 5
• Conservative: 10
• Liberal Democrat: 40
• Green: 8
• Residents’ associations: 5
• Independent: 4

Local Plan: N/A

5-year land housing supply: N/A

Housing delivery (2024-25): N/A

 

Elmbridge: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 16 ward seats were contested at the 2026 elections. There was no change in administration, as the council remained under no overall control. The Liberal Democrats became the largest party, and formed a coalition with the Residents’ Association.

The distribution of power is:

• Liberal Democrats: 20
• Residents’ Association: 12
• Conservatives: 9
• Hinchley Wood Residents Association Group: 2
• Elmbridge Independents: 3
• Independent: 1

Local Plan: The previous Local Plan was withdrawn in February 2025 and the council is now preparing a replacement from scratch. Work remains at an early evidence-gathering stage under its 2025–2028 programme, with no draft plan yet published.

5-year land housing supply: 0.91

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1950

 

Epsom and Ewell: The whole council is elected every 4 years. At the 2023 election, there was no change in administration, as the Residents’ Association retained their majority.

The distribution of power is:

• Residents Association: 25
• Labour: 4
• Liberal Democrats: 2
• Conservative: 4

Local Plan: The Local Plan 2022–2040 was submitted in March 2025 and remains at examination. Hearings on potential additional Green Belt allocations concluded in July 2026, and the council is now awaiting the Inspector’s direction on the next steps and any main modifications.

5-year land housing supply: 1.49

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1718

 

Guildford Borough Council: The entire council is elected every four years. Prior to the 2023 election, the council was under no overall control. There was a change in administration, with the Liberal Democrats gaining control.

The distribution of power is:

• Liberal Democrats: 25
• Conservatives: 10
• Residents for Guildford and Villages (R4GV): 7
• Labour: 3
• Guildford Greenbelt Group: 3

Local Plan: The new Local Plan is currently at the initial scoping consultation stage, running from 2 September to 14 October 2026, before Gateway 1 at the end of October. Consultation on the proposed content is planned for April–May 2027, with adoption targeted for April 2029.

5-year land housing supply: 2.98

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1856

 

Mole Valley: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 13 ward seats were contested at the 2026 election. There was no change in administration, as the Liberal Democrats held their majority.

The distribution of power is:

• Liberal Democrats: 31
• Conservatives: 2
• Ashtead Independents: 6

Local Plan: The Local Plan 2020–2039 was adopted in October 2024 and is now in force, setting the council’s development strategy, policies and site allocations through to 2039. No replacement plan is currently being prepared.

5-year land housing supply: 5

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1013

 

Reigate & Banstead: One third of the council is elected every year, followed by one year without elections. 15 wards were contested in 2026. There was no change in administration, despite the Conservatives losing their majority.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservatives: 16
• Green: 15
• Nork Residents’ Association: 3
• Tattenham and Preston Residents: 3
• Liberal Democrats: 4
• Independent: 4

Local Plan: Work on a new Local Plan remains at the pre-commencement and evidence-gathering stage, including an ongoing call for sites and preparation of a new land availability assessment. The council has not yet published a formal timetable or begun its first public consultation.

5-year land housing supply: 5.6

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1384

 

Runnymede: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 14 ward seats were contested in 2026. There was a change in administration, as the Conservatives lost their majority for the first time since 1998, and for only the second time since the first election in 1973. The council is now under no overall control. The Runnymede Council Alliance controls the council (Independents, Labour, Green and Liberal Democrats).

The distribution of power is:

• Conservatives: 12
• Runnymede Independent Residents: 5
• Labour: 8
• Liberal Democrats: 7
• Green: 2
• Independents: 4
• Reform: 3

Local Plan: The new Local Plan is currently at the initial scoping consultation stage, running from 7 September to 12 October 2026, with Gateway 1 expected later in October. Consultation on the vision and strategy is planned for June–July 2027, with adoption targeted for April 2029

5-year land housing supply: 3.92

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1516

 

Spelthorne: The whole council is elected every 4 years. At the 2023 election, the council remained under no overall control, and there was no change in administration. There were significant seat changes, however, with the Conservatives losing 11 seats, while the Liberal Democrats gained 2, Independents 5, Labour 3, and Greens 1. The council is run through a cooperative administration comprising Independent, Liberal Democrat, Labour, and Green Party councillors.

The distribution of power is:

• Conservatives: 14
• Liberal Democrats: 11
• Labour: 6
• Independent: 7
• Green: 1

Local Plan: The Local Plan 2024–2039/40 was adopted in March 2026, but the council immediately began preparing a replacement under the new system. Its initial scoping consultation closed on 3 August 2026, so the review remains at an early stage ahead of Gateway 1.

5-year land housing supply: 3.8

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1874

 

Surrey Heath: The whole council is elected every 4 years. Prior to the 2023 election, there was no overall majority. There was a change in administration, with the Liberal Democrats gaining control of the council.

The distribution of power is:

• Liberal Democrats: 23
• Conservatives: 6
• Independents: 3
• Labour 2
• Green: 1

Local Plan: The council is consulting on the scope of its new Local Plan Review 2040 from 14 September to 19 October 2026, with Gateway 1 due shortly afterwards. Separately, the previous Local Plan 2019–2038 remains at examination following consultation on the Inspector’s proposed modifications, with adoption expected later in 2026.

5-year land housing supply: 3

Housing delivery (2024-25): 965

 

Tandridge: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 14 wards were contested at the 2026 election. There was no change in administration, as the council remained under no overall control. The council is led by an alliance of the Oxted and Limpsfield Residents Group and some independent councillors.

• Residents’ Associations: 20
• Independent: 5
• Liberal Democrats: 12
• Conservatives: 5
• Reform: 1

Local Plan: The Regulation 18 Spatial Development Strategy consultation for its 2024–2044 Local Plan closed on 2 September 2026; the council is now reviewing responses before preparing the next version.

5-year land housing supply: 2.17

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1915

 

Waverley: The whole council is elected every 4 years. The council remained under no overall control and there was no change in administration, although there was a significant change in seat share, with the Liberal Democrats gaining 5, and the Conservatives losing 8.

The distribution of power is:

• Liberal Democrats: 22
• Residents: 13
• Conservatives: 10
• Labour 2
• Green: 1
• Independents: 2

Local Plan: Its initial scoping consultation closed in July 2026, with Gateway 1 scheduled for 23 October 2026 and consultation on proposed plan contents in February–March 2027; adoption is targeted for 31 January 2029.

5-year land housing supply: 1.28

Housing delivery (2024-25): 2036

 

Woking: One third of the council is elected each year, followed by one year without elections. 14 ward seats were contested at the 2026 election. There was no change in administration, as the Liberal Democrats retained their majority.

The distribution of power is:

• Liberal Democrats: 22
• Independents: 6
• Labour: 1
• Vacant: 1

Local Plan: The initial scoping consultation closed on 16 August 2026, with Gateway 1 scheduled for 25 September; the new Local Plan will cover 2027–2044.

5-year land housing supply: 4.57

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1308

 

Sussex

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East Sussex County Council: The 2026 election brought a major change in East Sussex. Reform UK entered the council with 22 seats, while the Conservatives fell from 27 seats to three. The Liberal Democrats increased their representation to 13 seats and the Greens to 11, while Labour lost all five of its seats. Reform UK now runs the council as a minority administration. The next election is scheduled for 2030.

The political balance is as follows:

• Conservative: 3
• Liberal Democrats: 13
• Green: 11
• Reform UK: 22
• Independents and Others: 1

Local Plan: N/A

5-year land housing supply: N/A

Housing delivery (2024-25): N/A

 

West Sussex County Council:

The Conservatives lost control of West Sussex at the 2026 election, falling from 48 seats to 11. Reform UK and the Liberal Democrats each won 23 seats, while the Greens increased their representation to seven and Labour finished with five. The council is now run by a coalition of the Liberal Democrats and Greens, . The next election is scheduled for 2030.

The political balance is as follows:

• Conservative: 11
• Liberal Democrats: 23
• Labour: 5
• Green: 7
• Reform UK: 23
• Local Alliance: 1

Local Plan: N/A

5-year land housing supply: N/A

Housing delivery (2024-25): N/A

 

Hastings Borough Council: At the 2026 election, 17 of the council’s 32 seats were contested. The Greens won 10 of those seats, taking their total representation to 19 and securing an overall majority. Hastings Borough Council is now run by a Green majority administration. The next election is scheduled for 2029.

The political balance is as follows:

• Conservative: 2
• Labour: 4
• Green: 19
• Reform UK: 6
• Local Alliance: 1

Local Plan: In August 2026, Hastings Borough Council’s Cabinet approved the recommendation to Full Council that the Local Plan is published for the Regulation 19 consultation on legal compliance and soundness. 

5-year land housing supply: 2.67

Housing delivery (2024-25): 1457