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

Reform UK has achieved notable advances in the early local election results, making inroads at the expense of both Labour and Conservative parties. These elections, covering councils throughout Scotland, Wales, and 136 English councils, represent the largest set of polls since the 2024 general election and serve as a crucial measure of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership.

Although many councils have yet to declare results overnight, the full outcomes are expected later on Friday, alongside announcements for the Senedd and Scottish Parliament. Initial returns show that Reform UK is gaining seats particularly in traditional Labour strongholds in northern England and the Midlands, including areas such as Wigan, Bolton, Salford, and Halton. In councils like Hartlepool, Tameside, Redditch, and Tamworth, Labour has lost control as Reform’s support increases.

The Conservative Party has also seen a decline in several areas, losing ground to Reform UK in locations such as Brentwood, Tamworth, and North East Lincolnshire. Still, there are positive signs for the Tories, such as retaining control of Harlow council in Essex. Additionally, in Wandsworth, the Conservatives have regained the position of largest party by taking seats from Labour, setting up a renewed contest to reclaim Westminster. However, Reform UK continues to threaten Conservative strongholds in upcoming county council elections in Essex, Norfolk, and Suffolk. In southern England, particularly Surrey and Sussex, the Liberal Democrats emerge as the main opposition to the Tories.

The Liberal Democrats have experienced mixed results overnight. They maintained control over councils such as Stockport and Portsmouth by gaining seats from Labour. In contrast, reformist gains in Hull resulted in the party losing control there. The Lib Dems anticipate improved performance later when councils in Hampshire and Surrey report. Meanwhile, the Green Party has made some progress in areas like Salford, Reading, and Exeter, where Labour has lost council control. Their main targets remain London boroughs like Hackney and Lewisham, with results expected in due course.

Further results yet to come include additional London boroughs where Reform UK and Conservatives aim to strengthen their positions, such as Bromley, Barking & Dagenham, and Barnet. Reform UK continues to seek gains in former Labour bastions across the north and Midlands, including Sunderland, Gateshead, and Walsall. Birmingham is expected to see a politically fragmented council, with all major parties represented and independent candidates with pro-Palestinian support possibly leading to no overall control for the first time in over ten years.

In Wales, Labour faces the potential end of its long-standing dominance amid rising competition between Plaid Cymru and Reform UK. The Greens aim to secure their first seat in the Senedd, while the Welsh Liberal Democrats strive to expand their representation beyond one seat. Although not historically strong in Wales, the Conservative Party appears set for significant losses.

In Scotland, Labour is heading toward substantial setbacks as the Scottish National Party (SNP) seeks an unprecedented fifth consecutive term. Reform UK, which currently holds no seats in Holyrood, is challenging Labour’s position as runner-up, with the Conservatives predicted to lose ground. Both the Greens and Liberal Democrats hope to capitalize on a fracturing political landscape as the dominance of major parties weakens

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