Labour has lost the key London councils of Westminster and Wandsworth in a huge blow for Sir Keir Starmer.
Local elections results are being announced in the capital following polls across all 32 boroughs on Thursday, with votes also happening across England, and in Scotland and Wales.
In what is a significant defeat for the Prime Minister, the Tories have regained Westminster from Labour. The party has also lost its majority in Wandsworth.
A total of 1,817 seats are up for grabs across the capital, while voters in Croydon, Hackney, Lewisham, Newham and Tower Hamlets will also select their mayor.
Reform UK appear to have made big gains across England and the Greens are predicted to pick up a large number of seats in London.
*** Check our live-updated interactive map for the latest London results here***
Scroll down for the latest election updates...
Key Points
- All the London election results so far
- Liberal Democrats sweep Richmond upon Thames in first London result
- Watch: David Lammy says election has been 'tough' for Labour
- Labour 'doing better in London than some predictions' - top pollster
- What's at stake for Keir Starmer, Labour and London
Reform UK leader says results show 'historic shift in British politcs'
08:51 , Megan HoweNigel Farage said the local election results had demonstrated a “truly historic shift in British politics”.
Reform UK have won control of Havering Council in east London after winning at least 28 of the 55 seats in the local authority where previously residents and ratepayer groups had a majority.
'We must reflect and respond', says Starmer
08:48 , Megan HoweThe Prime Minister went on: “When voters send a message like this we must reflect and we must respond.
“I think the vast majority of people do understand that we face huge challenges as a country.
“We’ve had a series of economic shocks in recent years and there’s a very difficult international situation at present, they know that.
“But they still want their lives to improve, they still want to see the change that we promised, they know the status quo is letting them down and they’re frustrated, they don’t feel the changes.”
'The results are tough,' says Starmer
08:46 , Megan HowePrime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, speaking at Kingsdown Methodist Church in Ealing, west London, on Friday morning, said: “The results are tough, they are very tough, and there’s no sugarcoating it.
“We have lost brilliant Labour representatives across the country, these are people who put so much into their communities, so much into our party.
“And that hurts, and it should hurt, and I take responsibility.”
Starmer says he 'takes responsibility' for Labour's local election results
08:45 , Megan HoweSir Keir Starmer said he took responsibility for Labour’s “tough” local election results, adding: “Days like this don’t weaken my resolve to deliver the change that I promised.”
Results: Reform UK takes control of Havering
08:41 , Megan HoweReform UK has taken control of a London borough council for the first time.
The party has just passed the threshold of 28 seats for victory.
Reform now has 30 of the 43 seats, there are 12 still to go.
Tories win majority in Kensington & Chelsea
08:34 , Megan HoweThe Conservatives have won a majority in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.
This isn’t a particular surprise, as the Tories have run the council since it was created in 1965.
The Conservatives won 36 seats, Labour won seven, the Lib Dems two and the Green Party one. Four independent candidates were also elected.
The Conservatives have a majority of 22.
When will we get the next results?
08:23 , Megan HoweIn London, the next results are due to come from Bexley, Havering and Kensington & Chelsea.
Unlike in a general election, not all counts began overnight, so some will still be tallying up their votes this morning.
The majority of London boroughs are expected to declare between mid-afternoon and late evening today, although the exact times depend on those doing the counting.
At 1pm, it is estimated we will get the mayoral results from Hackney and Newham.
Then from 3 to 4pm we should find out Islington, Waltham Forest, Lewisham (Mayor), Greenwich, Hillingdon, and Harrow’s results.
From 5 to 7pm we should get Barking & Dagenham, Barnet, Brent, Enfield, Hackney (Council), Redbridge, Haringey, Hounslow, Camden, Kingston, Lambeth, and Southwark.
Bromley is expected to be the final declaration on Friday at 7pm.
Watch: Reform gains are 'concerning', new Tory leader of Westminster Council admits
07:48 , Megan HoweWestminster’s new Conservative leader Paul Swaddle admits Reform’s gains are concerning.
Speaking to The Standard he said: “Clearly, Reform is winning councils - that is a concern.
“But Kemi is doing a great job leading the party, pulling us together and turning us back into a fighting machine that can win elections.”
What are the London local election results so far?
07:32 , Megan HoweThe Standard has put together an interactive map tracking how each London borough has voted so far.
Hover over your local area to see a detailed breakdown of the results.
Starmer is person to 'turn this round,' says defence secretary
07:28 , Megan HoweSir Keir Starmer is the person to “turn this round”, Cabinet minister John Healey insisted as dire local election results for Labour piled pressure on the Prime Minister.
He was asked about a call overnight from Labour MP Jonathan Brash for Sir Keir to go.
The Defence Secretary told Times Radio: “No, he’s not right.
“Keir Starmer won the mandate for five years from the public. We’re not even halfway through that Parliament. I think he can still deliver, he can still turn it round.”
Asked whether Sir Keir was the man to lead that change, Mr Healey said: “He is.”
He continued: “I’m not dismissing how bad these results look set to be, but we have had difficult nights before, and we have worked our way back.”
Results show a 'rebellion against the status quo' says polling expert
07:21 , Megan HowePolling expert Luke Tryl says the results are showing a “cross-ideology rebellion” against the political status quo.
The Conservatives and Labour have dominated British politics for over a century.
But the emergence of other parties, Reform and Greens etc, appears to be bringing about an end to the two-party system, he says.
“In a very British way what you are seeing is a cross-country, cross-ideology rebellion against a status quo that too many people think doesn’t work for them,” Luke says.
“The biggest casualty? The traditional two party system, and it’s hard to see it being possible to put it back together.”
In a very British way what you are seeing is a cross-country, cross-ideology rebellion against a status quo that too many people think doesn’t work for them. The biggest casualty? The traditional two party system, and it’s hard to see it being possible to put it back together.
— Luke Tryl (@LukeTryl) May 8, 2026
London business leader calls for "stability and clear decision-making" as results for capital come in
07:02 , Megan HoweRos Morgan, chief executive of Heart of London Business Alliance, which represents over 500 businesses, said: "These results point to less change overall than had been forecast across London.
“For businesses, stability and clear decision-making are essential.
“The priority now is delivery - on safety, economic resilience and sustaining confidence to support investment and growth.
“In Westminster, where the outcome is particularly significant for the UK economy, we look forward to working with the new administration to support a thriving West End.
"A critical part of that agenda must be advocating for a fundamental overhaul of business rates - without it, the recovery and future success of London will remain constrained."
Tories react to big win in Westminster
07:01 , Megan HoweA Conservative spokesman said: "We are delighted the Conservatives have taken control of Westminster Council.
“Labour are set to have a terrible night in London, an area they swept in the last general election."
“Under Kemi Badenoch the Conservatives are coming back in London.
“This victory is a clear sign of the progress the Conservatives are making under new leadership.
"This is also testament to the hard work of Conservative councillors and activists in Westminster. We are confident they will show that only the Conservatives are serious about delivering better services for lower taxes."
Independent Councillor says its 'funny old world' as he holds balance of power in Wandsworth
06:59 , Megan HoweIndependent member Malcolm Grimston who was re-elected in Wandsworth has reacted to the news he now holds the balance of power in the borough.
“I was reelected with 4081 votes and now hold the balance of power at Wandsworth Council. Funny old world,” he wrote on X.
So I was reelected with 4081 votes and now hold the balance of power at Wandsworth Council. Funny old world.
— Malcolm Grimston (@MalcolmGrimston) May 8, 2026
The Conservatives won 29 seats, while Labour have 25, meaning there is no overall control in the borough.
If Grimston works with the Conservatives, he would give the Conservatives a majority. If he sides with Labour, the political split would be 29-29.
Results: Tories take Westminster from Labour
06:43 , Megan HoweThe Conservatives have taken Westminster City Council from Labour which has now lost control of eight local authorities.
The Conservatives won 32 seats, with Labour winning 22.
This result will come as a major blow for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Close contest in Bexley as Reform seek to gain control from the Tories
06:36 , Megan HoweNigel Farage’s key Tory target council in London was said to be a close contest.
Reform UK is seeking to win Bexley from the Conservatives in Outer London.
Mr Farage’s party has gained a few seats from Labour.
But the Conservatives are holding off the Reform advance in others.
Lib Dem deputy leader hails party's 'stoking results' so far
06:29 , Megan HoweLiberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper said the party was on for a “record-breaking winning streak”.
“We are heading for our eighth set of local election gains in a row and are on track to beat Labour and the Conservatives once again,” she said in a statement.
“I couldn’t be more proud of our hardworking teams across the country, who knocked on over three-and-a-half million doors to take the fight to Farage and his politics of division.”
She added: “We’ve recorded stonking results in Stockport and Portsmouth, taking control of both councils and beating Reform. Many of our best results are still to come in places like Surrey, Sussex, Huntingdonshire, and Southwark.
“While those on the populist extremes of left and right just want to pitch groups against each other, Liberal Democrats have a plan to fix what’s broken and bring our country together.”
Results: Labour holds Ealing as Greens and Reform make gains
06:19 , Megan HoweThe Labour party has retained control of Ealing, but it has lost seats.
Forty-six Labour councillors were elected, down from 59 in 2022.
The Lib Dems won 13 (increase of seven), the Greens won five, the Tories won five and one independent candidate was elected.
What London results have we had so far?
06:12 , Megan HoweSo far we have had results from:
- Hammersmith and Fulham - Labour hold
- Merton - Lib Dem hold
- Richmond-upon-Thames - Lib Dem hold
- Sutton - Labour hold
- Wandsworth - Labour loss to no overall control
- Ealing - Labour hold
We should have results from the following boroughs fairly soon:
- Havering
- Kensington and Chelsea
- Westminster
- Bexley
Results: Tory wipeout in Sutton
06:07 , Megan HoweThe Liberal Democrats have dramatically increased their control over Sutton council in south London Sir Ed Davey’s party gained 23 seats, the Conservatives lost 20, Reform gained two, independents lost four, and Labour was down one.
The results mean that the new council has 51 Lib Dems, two Reform, one Labour and one independent.
Results: Labour loses control of Wandsworth, borough now in no overall control
06:00 , Megan HoweLabour has failed to keep a hold of its control in Wandsworth, as the borough is now in no overall control.
The Conservatives gained eight seats, Labour were down six, Reform lost one, and there is one fewer independent councillor.
Labour had taken control of the council in 2022 for the first time since the 1970s when it won 35 seats with the Tories on 22.
It means that running the council may be difficult given at best the Conservatives could have a majority of two, if the independent works with them.
If the independent sides with Labour, the political split would be 29-29.
With grim faces at the count in Westminster, it looks like that Labour may fall just short of holding onto at least two of the former Tory “crown jewel” councils that Sir Keir Starmer’s party won in 2022.
Lib Dems fail to win control of their target council Merton
05:57 , Megan HoweLiberal Democrats fail to win control of their target council of Merton in south west London.
Sir Ed Davey’s Lib Dems piled resources into Merton to try to become the biggest party on the council.
But Labour fought off the Lib Dem advance, winning 32 seats, to the Lib Dems 19, with the Conservatives on four and Reform two.
In Richmond, the Lib Dems gained five Green seats to make the council under even stronger one-party rule, with 54 Lib Dems.
Final result in Merton: Labour 32, Liberal Democrats 19, Conservatives 4, Merton Park Residents 2. Labour retain control of London’s most marginal council with an increased majority. A great endorsement of our record over the last four years. pic.twitter.com/srLwBmGgTD
— Cllr Martin Whelton (@MartinWhelton) May 8, 2026
Early results show Lib Dems making gains in Sutton and Labour holding Hammersmith & Fulham
05:54 , Megan HoweLondon local election results trickling in show the Liberal Democrats making major gains in Sutton and Labour holding Hammersmith and Fulham.
In south London’s Sutton, Sir Ed Davey’s Lib Dems retained control after winning 23 seats, while the Conservatives lost 20.
Labour remains the biggest party in Hammersmith and Fulham, having gained one seat, while the Tories gained two and the Green Party lost two.
Labour doing better in London than some predictions, says top pollster Sir John Curtice
05:49 , Megan HoweLabour was losing seats it was seeking to defend at a very high rate across the country but results from London were looking less disastrous for the party than some forecasts, says, Sir John Curtice, Professor of Politics at Strathclylde University.
On the Labour loss rate, he told the BBC: “It’s bouncing up and down. It’s gone now closer to 50% than 60% as some of these London results have been coming in.
“So, it may well be now that Labour lose less than the 1,500 seats that perhaps some people said was potentially the tipping point for attempts to try to unseat Keir Starmer.
“But only a third of the seats have been declared overnight and they are not all in yet.
“There is still a very long way to go.” He added that the “big picture” so far is that Reform is ahead.
“It’s clear Reform is winning most votes in the elections that have been declared so far,” he explained.
“Then they are basically being trailed by four parties that are all of them just a little bit below 20% or so but are quite difficult to disentangle.
“Even Reform are probably not quite at 30% of the vote.
“So the fracturing of British politics is underlined by these results.”
Count just over halfway in Westminster, as Tories take seven Labour seats
05:44 , Megan HoweA lot of very glum Labour faces in Westminster as the party loses another seat to the Tories, The Standard’s chief political correspondent says.
We're just over half way through the count here and the Conservatives have now taken seven Labour seats.
Kemi Badenoch's party are just seven councillors away from reclaiming the flagship central London town hall.
Watch: David Lammy says election cycle has been 'tough' for Labour
05:41 , Megan Howe“This is a tough election cycle,” says deputy prime minister David Lammy.
“This is a midterm set of elections, with people concerned about cost of living and wanting to see the government go faster with quicker pace,” he added.
Watch his full statement here:
Wandsworth on a knife edge, as first results come in
05:37 , Megan HoweIt’s neck and neck in Wandsworth between the Tories and Labour.
So far the results are: 25 for Labour and 24 for the Tories.
A party needs 30 to win a majority.
Polling expert Luke Tryl said: “Wandsworth looking very close, Tories making gains, but a couple of split wards they’d have hoped to sweep have remained split.
“Meanwhile Greens falling short in Tooting wards so far may allow Labour to stay in control.”
Wandsworth looking very close, Tories making gains, but a couple of split wards they’d have hoped to sweep have remained split. Meanwhile Greens falling short in Tooting wards so far may allow Labour to stay in control.
— Luke Tryl (@LukeTryl) May 8, 2026
Labour losing two thirds of seats, the Tories around half, says polling expert
05:27 , Megan Howe“Both the big two parties are struggling to hold their seats,” says Luke Tryl, UK director of More in Common.
“Labour are losing nearly two thirds of theirs so far. The Tories so far only managing a 50% retention rate.”
Both the big two parties are struggling to hold their seats. Labour are losing nearly two thirds of theirs so far. The Tories so far only managing a 50% retention rate. pic.twitter.com/EH6eMjd4m2
— Luke Tryl (@LukeTryl) May 8, 2026
Watch: Local election counts underway in Westminster
05:24 , Megan HoweLocal election counts are underway in Westminster.
It’s very close between the Tories and Labour. With six wards declared, both parties have nine each.
Watch: Nigel Farage says Reform UK on course for general election victory
05:21 , Megan HoweNigel Farage suggested Reform UK was on course for a general election victory after taking council seats from Labour in early local election results.
Sir Keir Starmer’s party was haemorrhaging seats as local authorities began declaring overnight, in a set of contests that could prove decisive for his premiership.
Reform’s gains exceeded 150 seats when results were in from 21 of the 136 councils in the early hours of Friday, while Labour lost more than 120, including in its traditional northern heartlands.
A jubilant Mr Farage heralded a “historic change in British politics,” telling reporters “there is no more left-right” as his outfit was “scoring stunning percentages in traditional old Labour areas”.
The Reform leader compared the substantial gains to clearing Becher’s Brook, a famously difficult jump in the Grand National.
“If we cleared Becher’s Brook and landed well, we go on to win the Grand National.
“What is very clear to me is that our voters will stick with us now all the way through.”
How did Londoners vote in 2022?
05:07 , Megan HoweResults are starting to trickle in now, so here’s a reminder of how each London borough voted in 2022.
Labour and the Tories battle for control in Westminster
05:00 , Megan HoweIt's neck and neck in Westminster where Labour is attempting to retain the flagship townhall after wrestling it from Tory control four years ago.
With six wards declared, both parties have nine seats each.
The Tories gained two from Labour in the Bayswater ward and won the Lancaster Gate seat vacated by Laila Cunningham, who defected to Reform UK last year.
Lib Dems retain Richmond upon Thames Borough Council
04:53 , Megan HoweThe Liberal Democrats hold all 54 council seats in Richmond upon Thames after gaining five in the local elections.
Sir Ed Davey’s party achieved the landslide from an already strong base of 49 seats.
The Green Party lost five seats in the south west London borough.
What are the results across England so far?
04:48 , Megan HoweIf you’re waiting for the London local election results to drop and keen to find out what the results are across England, check out this interactive map below.
The map shows results for all 130 borough councils, district councils and unitary authorities up for election in England.
Clean sweep for Lib Dems in Richmond so far
04:32 , Rachael BurfordThe Liberal Democrats look set to comfortably retain Richmond council.
The party has won every single seat in the nine wards declared so far.
Lib Dems set to increase majority in Sutton
04:06 , Rachael BurfordThe Liberal Democrats look set to increase their majority on Sutton council.
Sir Ed Davey's Party has taken four seats from the Tories in Worcester Park and one from Labour in the Hackbridge ward so far.
The Lib Dems also gained control of Portsmouth Council tonight.
A Lib Dem spokesperson said: "This is a stonking success for the Liberal Democrats in Portsmouth.
“We’ve held our ground and grown, despite Reform throwing everything they had at this campaign. Across the city, many voters have given short shrift to Farage - someone who chooses to side with Donald Trump even when he disparages our Royal Navy."
First London results come in from Wandsworth
03:41 , Rachael BurfordIt’s neck and neck between the Conservatives and Labour in Wandsworth.
The borough is the first in the capital to begin declaring results.
Labour won the flagship town hall, which sets the lowest council tax in the country, in 2022 after 44 years of Tory control.
Nineteen seats have declared so far. The Conservatives have won 10 and Labour nine.
Nigel Farage: Local elections mark 'historic change' in British politics
03:27 , Rachael BurfordA jubilant Nigel Farage has said British politics is “witnessing is an historic change”.
The Reform UK leader has seen his party pick up almost 100 new councillors across the country already, mostly at the expense of Labour.
Speaking at the party’s London headquarters, he said: “I think what you’re witnessing is an historic change in British politics. Forget left-right, there is no more left-right. It is gone, it is out of the window, it’s finished.
“As you can see, we are scoring stunning percentages in traditional old Labour areas. “We’re currently averaging about 39% of the vote, of the seats that are in already, we’re currently on 145 seats won.
“We are way exceeding anything that I thought.”
Labour MP calls for Starmer to quit as stream of losses continues
03:06 , Rachael BurfordThe Labour MP for Hartlepool, where Reform UK has taken all 12 seats, has called for Sir Keir Starmer to quit.
Jonathan Brash said the Prime Minister should “set out a timetable for his departure” on Friday.
His wife Pamela Hargreaves led the town hall and lost her seat as the council slipped into no overall control.
Mr Brash, who has previously said he did not expect Sir Keir to lead the party into the next general election, told The Guardian: “It has been a terrible night for the Labour Party.
“What I’ve seen here is extraordinarily good, hard-working, Hartlepool people lose their seats.
“I’ve seen canvassers working night and day in this election and it’s all been for naught and the reason has absolutely nothing to do with them.”
At 3am, Labour has lost more than 60 council seats across the country and control of three town halls.
Reform UK meanwhile has picked up almost 100 new councillors.
How did London vote at the last local elections?
02:34 , Rachael BurfordAt the last local elections in 2022 Labour dominated in London, winning 21 of the city’s 32 councils.
In two boroughs – Barking and Dagenham and Lewisham – Sir Keir Starmer’s party won every single seat.
But this year results are expected to be very different.
Labour’s popularity in the capital has plummeted, resulting in a number of council by-election losses and defections.
More than 50 Labour representatives have joined Zack Polanski’s party since the 2024 general election, forming opposition groups in both Barking and Dagenham and Lewisham.
Our map below shows how London voted four years ago:
Labour loses first councils
02:18 , Rachael BurfordLabour has lost its first councils of the night.
Hartlepool and Redditch have both gone to no overall control with Reform making large gains at each.
Redditch Council, in Worcestershire, has 27 seats but only nine were up for election this year.
Reform won eight seats and Labour just one.
In Hartlepool, in the north-east, Labour lost seven of its 22 seats, while Reform gained 12 seats, bringing its total to 15.
Reform wins first seats at expense of Labour
01:46 , Rachael BurfordReform UK won in one of the first results to be declared, with Philippa Nicholson taking the Hutton South seat on Brentwood council in Essex.
She won with 987 votes – 41% ahead of the Conservatives on 785 votes.
Reform also won a seat in Chorley, Lancashire, with Martin Topp securing 778 votes in Chorley East, ahead of Labour on 677.
The first seat at the Salford City Council election count has been taken from Labour by Reform.
In the Walkden North ward Reform’s Miles Henderson had 1,209 votes to Labour Jack Youd’s 953, with the Green party in third place with 427 votes.
But Labour will remain in overall control of the council, whatever the result tonight, where 21 of the 60 seats are up for election.
Counting begins
01:36 , Rachael BurfordVote counting has begun at nine London councils.
Here at the Westminster Council count in Lindley Hall, the first results are expected at about 2.30am.
Westminster, Wandsworth, Ealing, Sutton, Bexley, Kensington & Chelsea, Richmond-upon-Thames, Hammersmith & Fulham and Havering are all counting votes overnight, with results expected before 7am.
All other boroughs begin at 9.30am.
Greens predict 'record-breaking result' while Labour acknowledge 'tough' set of polls
Friday 8 May 2026 00:48 , Rachael BurfordZack Polanski has predicted will see a “record-breaking result”, making gains across the country.
After the polls closed, the Green Party leader added: “The news from the doorstep is that we will be taking seats from not just Labour but the Tories and Lib Dems too, from all across the country.
“We are very confident that we will gain many seats in London, but we look forward to seeing results coming in from all across the country – from Newcastle and Bradford through to Sussex and of course, the Senedd election where we expect to make a historic Green breakthrough to Wales’ national parliament.”
Meanwhile, Labour Party deputy leader Lucy Powell acknowledged they were “tough” for Sir Keir Starmer’s governing party.
She said: “These elections are tough and took place in a difficult context. After over a decade of Britain being held back, working people up and down the country rightly want to see the whole of our United Kingdom firing on all cylinders in their interests.
“Labour has started to deliver on that promise and we are determined to make it happen everywhere for everyone.”
Coverage ends for the evening
Thursday 7 May 2026 22:59 , Tom PlaceThat will be the end of The Standard’s local elections coverage today.
Come back to our live blog in the early hours of Friday, when our coverage will return.
Powell: Elections will be 'tough' for Labour
Thursday 7 May 2026 22:49 , Tom PlaceLabour's deputy leader Lucy Powell has said that her party has run "positive" local election campaigns, but admitted they will be "tough".
Powell said: "These elections are tough and took place in a difficult context. After over a decade of Britain being held back, working people up and down the country rightly want to see the whole of our United Kingdom firing on all cylinders in their interests.
"Labour has started to deliver on that promise and we are determined to make it happen everywhere for everyone."
Yusuf: Reform confident they will do 'extremely well'
Thursday 7 May 2026 22:34 , Tom PlaceReform UK's Zia Yusuf has said he's confident his party will do "extremely well" in Thursday’s local elections.
He said that Reform's predicted success "heralds a new era of politics" and the that "two old parties” of British politics will “be well and truly smashed today again".
He did not put a number on how he though Reform would do, saying that "would take voters for granted".
Lammy dodges Starmer question
Thursday 7 May 2026 22:26 , Tom PlaceDeputy Prime Minister David Lammy has avoided a question on whether Keir Starmer should remain in Downing Street.
Asked by broadcasters whether Starmer should stay as PM whatever the results of today's elections are, Mr Lammy didn't answer directly, but said: "People want to see the Labour Party deliver.
"And for councillors working hard, for activist members on the doorstep making sure that our message is delivered locally, they want to see us nationally delivering on their behalf as well."
Polls have now closed
Thursday 7 May 2026 22:00 , Tom PlaceUnless you are already in a queue at a polling station...the polls in London and across the country have now closed.
15 minutes to go....
Thursday 7 May 2026 21:45 , Tom PlaceOnly a quarter of an hour left to cast your vote!
Under an hour until polls close
Thursday 7 May 2026 21:15 , tom placeIf you still haven’t cast your vote, you might want to head to your polling station sharpish.
Not sure where to go? Use the Electoral Commission’s polling station lookup tool to find your local polling station and view the candidates standing in your area.
When will results be announced in my borough?
Thursday 7 May 2026 20:48 , Alastair LockhartResults for council and mayoral elections across London are expected to begin in the early hours of Friday morning, with the latest not announced until Saturday evening.
Here’s a list of the estimated result times for each London borough:
Friday:
• Westminster 3.30am
• Wandsworth 4am
• Ealing 4.30am
• Sutton 4.30am
• Bexley 5am
• Kensington & Chelsea 5am
•Merton 5am
• Richmond-upon-Thames 5am
• Hammersmith & Fulham 5.30am
• Havering 6am
• Islington 3pm
• Waltham Forest 3pm
• Greenwich 4pm
• Hillingdon 4pm
• Harrow 4.30pm
• Barking & Dagenham 5pm
• Barnet 5pm
•Brent 5pm
• Enfield 5pm
• Hackney 5pm
• Redbridge 5pm
• Haringey 5.30pm
• Hounslow 5.30am
•. Camden 6pm
• Kingston-upon-Thames 6pm
• Lambeth 6pm
• Newham 6pm
• Southwark 6pm
• Bromley 7pm
Saturday:
• Croydon 4pm
• Lewisham 4pm
• Tower Hamlets 6pm
Just over two hours until polls close
Thursday 7 May 2026 19:54 , Alastair LockhartLondoners are still heading to vote with just over two hours until polls close.
Almost 25,000 candidates are fighting to be elected to more than 5,000 seats on 136 councils across England, with Labour defending more than half the seats.
Polling stations are open until 10pm.
However, as long as you've joined the queue by this time, you'll still be allowed to vote.
You will need ID to vote in person in London, but don’t worry If you’ve forgotten or misplaced your polling card - you can vote without it.
How did London vote in 2022?
Thursday 7 May 2026 19:16 , Alastair LockhartAt the last local elections in 2022 Labour dominated in London, winning 21 of the city’s 32 councils.
In two boroughs – Barking and Dagenham and Lewisham – Labour won every single seat.
In most London areas it was a straight fight between two of the mainstream parties.
Barnet, Bexley, Enfield, Hammersmith and Fulham, Haringey, Harrow, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Southwark, Waltham Forest, Wandsworth, Newham, Islington and Westminster returned councillors from just two parties.
Reform UK, which only officially rebranded from the Brexit Party in January 2021, did not win any seats.
Meanwhile the Greens, whose candidates have mounted a major challenge to Labour in inner London this year, returned just 17 councillors across eight boroughs.
Londoners cast their votes
Thursday 7 May 2026 18:27 , Alastair LockhartLondoners have been voting in the local elections across the city since polls opened at 7am.
Polling places in every borough will close at 10pm.
Severe travel disruption on the rail network, particularly at Waterloo and Euston stations, are likely to delay commuters in getting home in time to cast their vote.
Passengers have been advised to plan their journey ahead and to expect delays.
Four (and a bit) hours until polls close
Thursday 7 May 2026 17:37 , Tom PlacePolling stations will be closing at 10pm this evening - but as long as you've joined the queue by this time, you'll still be allowed to vote.
Don’t forget, if you’re voting in England you will need ID to vote in person.
If you’ve forgotten or misplaced your polling card, don’t worry - you can vote without it.
When will results be announced?
Thursday 7 May 2026 17:00 , Tom PlaceAlthough polling stations close at 10pm this evening, we won’t know the results for the 2026 local elections until tomorrow at the earliest.
Different boroughs will announce at different times, starting in the early hours of the morning and likely running through until Saturday.
Here’s a list of the estimated results times for each borough:
Friday:
• Westminster 3.30am
• Wandsworth 4am
• Ealing 4.30am
• Sutton 4.30am
• Bexley 5am
• Kensington & Chelsea 5am
•Merton 5am
• Richmond-upon-Thames 5am
• Hammersmith & Fulham 5.30am
• Havering 6am
• Islington 3pm
• Waltham Forest 3pm
• Greenwich 4pm
• Hillingdon 4pm
• Harrow 4.30pm
• Barking & Dagenham 5pm
• Barnet 5pm
•Brent 5pm
• Enfield 5pm
• Hackney 5pm
• Redbridge 5pm
• Haringey 5.30pm
• Hounslow 5.30am
•. Camden 6pm
• Kingston-upon-Thames 6pm
• Lambeth 6pm
• Newham 6pm
• Southwark 6pm
• Bromley 7pm
Saturday:
• Croydon 4pm
• Lewisham 4pm
• Tower Hamlets 6pm
All of the mayoral elections are counting on Friday, with Hackney and Newham expected to declare at 1pm, Watford at 2pm, Lewisham at 3pm, Croydon at 4pm and Tower Hamlets at possibly around 6pm.
Dogs at polling stations
Thursday 7 May 2026 16:13 , Tom PlaceVotes around the country have been bringing their dogs to the polling stations.
We’ve compiled a selection of the most photogenic political pooches today - check out all the best images here.
Kemi Badenoch makes her vote in Essex
Thursday 7 May 2026 15:52 , Tom PlaceConservative leader Kemi Badenoch was pictured arriving to cast her local election votes at Clavering Village Hall in Saffron Walden, north west Essex earlier today
She was seen waving and smiling as she went in with her husband Hamish.
Zack Polanski spotted in Wales
Thursday 7 May 2026 15:39 , Tom PlaceGreen Party leader Zack Polanski has been pictured outside a polling station in Penarth, Wales today, along with Anthony Slaughter, leader of the Green Party in Wales.
Polanski has already postal voted in the London local elections, where he lives.
Watch: Sir Ed Davey casts his vote in local elections
Thursday 7 May 2026 15:24 , Alastair LockhartWhat's at stake in today's elections?
Thursday 7 May 2026 14:44 , Alastair LockhartSir Keir Starmer is facing a huge test for his premiership in the local elections in London, Scotland, Wales and much of England.
Friday is threatening to be a day of reckoning if, as expected, Labour suffers heavy losses across Britain, our Chief Reporter Nicholas Cecil writes.
The results of today’s local elections in England, for the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly will come in over several days.
But by Friday afternoon it should be clear whether Labour is staring at an electoral bruising, a nightmare, a catastrophe or political Armageddon.
What are the other elections happening today?
Thursday 7 May 2026 14:08 , Alastair LockhartWe’ll be bringing you all the latest on the elections across London, but many other important votes are happening across the UK today.
The Scottish Parliament election will see 129 MSPs elected to Holyrood.
In Wales, all the seats in the Senedd are also up for grabs as voters return 96 MSs, an increase from the previous 60 representatives of the parliament.
Across England, around 5,000 councillors will be elected to 136 councils. Some local authorities will elect all of their members today, while others will only elect some.
Do I need to bring photo ID to vote?
Thursday 7 May 2026 13:24 , Alastair LockhartYou will need to bring a form of photo ID to vote in today’s elections. This can be a passport or driving license, but there are several options.
Here is a full list of accepted forms of ID:
- Passport issued by the UK, any of the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, a British Overseas Territory, an EEA state or a Commonwealth country (including an Irish Passport Card)
- Driving licence issued by the UK, any of the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, or an EEA state (this includes a provisional driving licence)
- A Blue Badge
- Older Person’s Bus Pass funded by the UK Government
- Disabled Person’s Bus Pass funded by the UK Government
- 60+ London Oyster Photocard funded by Transport for London
- Freedom Pass
- Identity card bearing the Proof of Age Standards Scheme hologram (a PASS card)
- Biometric immigration document
- Ministry of Defence Form 90 (Defence Identity Card)
- National identity card issued by an EEA state
- Voter Authority Certificate
- Anonymous Elector’s Document
Your complete guide to the local elections
Thursday 7 May 2026 13:19 , Alastair LockhartLondoners are heading to the polls to elect councillors for 32 London boroughs.
A total of 1,817 seats are up for grabs across the capital, while voters in Croydon, Hackney, Lewisham, Newham and Tower Hamlets will also select their mayor.
Labour is defending the most local authorities at 21, but Sir Keir Starmer’s party is facing challenges from the Greens in inner boroughs and independents in east London.
The Conservatives currently hold six councils, while the Liberal Democrats run three. Tower Hamlets is run by the independent left-wing Aspire party and Havering is under no overall control.
Read the Standard’s complete guide to the local elections here
Ed Davey feeling 'positive' as he casts his ballot
Thursday 7 May 2026 12:53 , Alastair LockhartLiberal Democrats leader Sir Ed Davey said he is feeling “very, very positive” as he went to cast his ballot in the local elections at Surbiton Hill Methodist Church in south-west London.
He told reporters a good result for the Lib Dems will mean “lots of gains”, as he arrived with his wife, Emily, on Thursday.
When asked if he was worried about the Green Party, Sir Ed said: “We are worried about can we win even more? We are on the up.”
Sir Ed smiled as he waved at a passer-by outside the polling station before stopping to shake hands with a member of the public.
When asked by reporters if he was excited, he said: “I’m always excited on election day.”
Starmer and Khan ramp up efforts to get voters back to Labour in Wandsworth
Thursday 7 May 2026 12:44 , Megan HoweSir Sadiq Khan and Sir Keir Starmer both ramping up efforts to get voters to back Labour in Wandsworth, a council which it won off the Tories in 2022.
The London Mayor posted on X: “Here in Wandsworth, local Labour councillors working with a hardworking Labour council, a Labour Mayor and Labour government have delivered real change for local residents.
“Don’t risk the progress we’ve made - vote Labour today.”
Labour leader and Prime Minister Sir Keir reposted the mayor’s message.
Their joint efforts suggest Labour might think it has a chance of keeping control of the council.
But in the new era of five-party politics MPs admit they are struggling to work out likely vote shares.
Here in Wandsworth, local Labour councillors working with a hardworking Labour council, a Labour Mayor and Labour government have delivered real change for local residents.
— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) May 7, 2026
Don’t risk the progress we’ve made - vote Labour today. pic.twitter.com/Q3qUd0u8Ze
Reform economic spokesman Robert Jenrick takes his dog to the polling station
Thursday 7 May 2026 12:39 , Megan HoweFormer Cabinet minister Mr Jenrick defected to Nigel Farage’s party from the Conservatives.
Mr Farage told The Standard that May 7 is a cut-off date for Tories going to Reform amid claims that the string of defections is damaging his party.
Time will tell if he sticks to this policy.
Vote, vote, vote!
— Robert Jenrick (@RobertJenrick) May 7, 2026
Let’s get Starmer OUT! pic.twitter.com/PVUUtc3S8Z
Dogs at polling stations across the UK
Thursday 7 May 2026 12:20 , Megan HoweIt’s local election day, which can mean only one thing: the nation’s dogs are out in force for their annual photoshoot outside polling stations.
From Labradors and terriers to greyhounds and German Shepherds, the capital’s canine voters have been turning up in all shapes and sizes.
Here’s a selection of today’s most photogenic political pooches making their way to the polls.
When are the results going to be announced?
Thursday 7 May 2026 12:13 , Megan HoweResults for the 2026 local elections will come out tomorrow, starting in the early hours of the morning and likely running through until Saturday.
Here’s a list of the estimated results times for each borough:
• Westminster 3.30am
• Wandsworth 4am
• Ealing 4.30am
• Sutton 4.30am
• Bexley 5am
• Kensington & Chelsea 5am
•Merton 5am
• Richmond-upon-Thames 5am
• Hammersmith & Fulham 5.30am
• Havering 6am
• Islington 3pm
• Waltham Forest 3pm
• Greenwich 4pm
• Hillingdon 4pm
• Harrow 4.30pm
• Barking & Dagenham 5pm
• Barnet 5pm
•Brent 5pm
• Enfield 5pm
• Hackney 5pm
• Redbridge 5pm
• Haringey 5.30pm
• Hounslow 5.30am
•. Camden 6pm
• Kingston-upon-Thames 6pm
• Lambeth 6pm
• Newham 6pm
• Southwark 6pm
• Bromley 7pm
Some results will be coming in on Saturday, they are as follows:
• Croydon 4pm
• Lewisham 4pm
• Tower Hamlets 6pm
All of the mayoral elections are counting on Friday, with Hackney and Newham expected to declare at 1pm, Watford at 2pm, Lewisham at 3pm, Croydon at 4pm and Tower Hamlets at possibly around 6pm.
Labour candidates in London using endorsement from Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham in their campaigning.
Thursday 7 May 2026 11:08 , Megan HoweA Labour leaflet, shared on X, shows the party have been using endorsements from Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.
Mr Burnham is more popular among some Left-leaning voters than Sir Keir Starmer.
“Incredible that Labour in London are featuring endorsements from Andy Burnham on their leaflets - but not Keir Starmer or Sadiq Khan,” the post reads.
Independent MP Jeremy Corbyn casts his vote
Thursday 7 May 2026 10:56 , Megan HoweThe MP for Islington North wrote on X: “I just voted for three fantastic independent candidates in Finsbury Park who oppose austerity, stand up to racism and support the people of Palestine. Today, a new kind of politics is on the ballot — and community power will win!”
I just voted for three fantastic independent candidates in Finsbury Park who oppose austerity, stand up to racism and support the people of Palestine.
— Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) May 7, 2026
Today, a new kind of politics is on the ballot — and community power will win! pic.twitter.com/gVVK5hl9it
Watch: Nigel Farage heads to the polling station to cast his vote
Thursday 7 May 2026 10:50 , Megan HoweThe Reform UK leader showed off his Union Jack socks as he went to cast his vote this morning.
Labour puts potholes and community skips at heart of battle for Barnet
Thursday 7 May 2026 10:31 , Megan HoweAs Labour seeks to keep control of Barnet, won from the Tories in 2022, it is seeking to get voters to focus on local issues rather than controversies over Sir Keir Starmer’s premiership.
Hendon Labour MP David Pinto-Duschinsky posted on X: “Since coming to power, Barnet’s Labour council has filled over 15K potholes, got our CCTV working, brought back community skips, secured 1,000 new council homes, protected the Freedom Pass and so much more besides, all while keeping council tax lower than Tory-run Harrow or any neighbouring borough.”
Since coming to power, Barnet’s Labour council has filled over 15K potholes, got our CCTV working, brought back community skips, secured 1,000 new council homes, protected the Freedom Pass and so much more besides, all while keeping council tax lower than Tory-run Harrow or any… https://t.co/dthc2ybdgC
— David Pinto-Duschinsky MP (@DavidPintoD) May 7, 2026
Sir Sadiq Khan joins Labour battle against Aspire in Tower Hamlets contest
Thursday 7 May 2026 09:57 , Megan HoweLondon Mayor Sadiq Khan has shown his support for Labour’s Tower Hamlets mayoral candidate Sirajul Islam in the local elections.
The position is currently held by Aspire’s Lutfur Rahman who was elected in 2022 with 54.9% of the vote in the second round of counting. The turnout was 41.9%.
“I’m asking for everyone in Tower Hamlets to vote for my friend, Sirajul Islam,” Khan says.
“He’s got the values, the vision and the integrity to be a great leader of Tower Hamlets.”
🗳️ TODAY IS ELECTION DAY.@SadiqKhan is backing @CllrSirajIslam for Mayor of Tower Hamlets.
— Tower Hamlets Labour Group (@TH_Labour) May 7, 2026
📸 Don’t forget, you MUST bring photo ID to vote.
Polls close at 10pm. Make your vote count. #TowerHamlets pic.twitter.com/cjT7ZoYzqn
Party leaders issue final messages to Londoners for the elections
Thursday 7 May 2026 09:49 , Megan HoweOur Chief Reporter Nic Cecil has released the final messages and appeals from party leaders as Londoners take to the polls today.
So, what have they all said?
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said voters had a “clear choice” between “progress and a better future” with a Labour council working with a Labour Government versus “the anger and division offered up by Reform or empty promises from the Greens."
Green Party leader Zack Polanski appealed: “Let’s make history and elect a record number of Green councillors, who will work hard to make London an affordable place to live, and to make London the greenest city in the world.”
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage stressed: “Labour have allowed crime to run rampant in our capital, whilst the Conservatives are concreting over our green spaces in boroughs like Bromley and Bexley.
“Voters have a chance to deliver real change in London.”
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said: “Under Sadiq Khan and Labour, London has lost its joy. Nightlife has disappeared, crime has got worse and housebuilding gone backwards. Only Conservatives offer a real alternative to Labour’s high tax, anti-business, joyless approach.”
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: “Londoners have a clear choice: more of the same, or a fresh start with local champions who truly care about their community.
“Only Liberal Democrats are offering a real plan to fix the housing crisis, get our public transport back on track, and tackle crime.”
Labour MP Ed Miliband makes air quality a key election issue
Thursday 7 May 2026 09:15 , Megan HoweNet Zero Secretary Ed Miliband is making air quality in London a key borough election issue.
The north Londoner said: "It's polling day, and I'm asking you to vote for your brilliant local Labour candidates in this election.
"£11 billion for social and affordable housing, free breakfast clubs, free school meals, building more council homes and keeping air quality within legal limits.
"It's all on the ballot today. Don't forget your voter ID and vote Labour today until 10pm."
Sir Sadiq Khan's Ulez ultra low emission zone has been credited with cleaning up air, particularly in Inner London.
But Nigel Farage's Reform UK has campaigned against the London Mayor's air quality scheme, arguing it is having little impact in Outer London and penalising motorists.
In pictures: Early bird voters head to polling stations to cast their votes
Thursday 7 May 2026 09:10 , Megan Howe
WATCH: Sir Keir Starmer arrives to cast his vote
Thursday 7 May 2026 09:03 , Megan HoweLabour launches 'Hackney we love you' video
Thursday 7 May 2026 08:55 , Megan HoweLabour has launched a "Hackney we love you" video as it seeks to cling onto the council.
The borough is top of the target list for Zack Polanski's Green Party.
Mr Polanski has told The Standard how he is "very confident" that Green candidate Zoe Garbett will be elected Mayor of Hackney.
Our message to Hackney.
— Hackney Labour (@HackneyLabour) May 4, 2026
Vote Labour on Thursday. pic.twitter.com/TxiylKrba7
'We're the only party you can vote for if you want real change,' says Farage
Thursday 7 May 2026 08:53 , Megan Howe“The polls are open. Go out and vote Reform,” says Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.
“And do it because we’re going to get rid of Keir Starmer when we win and we are the only party you can vote for if you want real change in a country that is going downhill rapidly.”
The key thing to note is this is not a general election - seats in Westminster will remain unchallenged.
Polls are now open.
— Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) May 7, 2026
Vote Reform UK today. ✅ pic.twitter.com/cGDIlCGUgL
'Choose progress over politics of anger', says Keir Starmer
Thursday 7 May 2026 08:46 , Megan HowePrime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has written on X: "Today, choose progress over the politics of anger.
"Vote Labour."
He was seen casting his vote at Westminster Chapel earlier this morning.
Today, choose progress over the politics of anger.
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) May 7, 2026
Vote Labour. pic.twitter.com/xRyBpfaboP
What's the weather forecast for polling day?
Thursday 7 May 2026 08:31 , Megan HoweIt’s looking like a bit of a mixed bag for voters heading to the polls today.
Forecasters say there will be sunny spells this morning followed by some showers in the afternoon.
Temperatures are expected to reach around 16C, but feeling more like 14C.
PM casts his vote at the ballot box in Westminster
Thursday 7 May 2026 08:23 , Megan HoweSir Keir Starmer cast his ballot at Westminster Chapel in central London this morning.
Walking hand-in-hand with his wife, Lady Victoria Starmer, Starmer spent around two minutes in the polling station before leaving.
He did not respond when asked by reporters how he was feeling and if he would resign if the Labour Party performs poorly, as some projections have forecast.
Shortly before the Prime Minister arrived, a member of the public remarked on the huddle of photographers outside Westminster Chapel, saying: “If I’d known you guys were all rocking up, I would have worn something different!”
Still unsure who to vote for? Take a look at the candidates in your area
Thursday 7 May 2026 08:08 , Megan HoweOne of the easiest ways to find your local candidates is to visit the Electoral Commission website and enter your postcode.
This way you can find out where your nearest polling station is and you’ll see a list of all candidates.
More than six million London residents are eligible to vote in the local elections. They offer people the chance to have their say on what happens in their local area.
More than 1,800 councillors will be elected across London’s 32 boroughs, they run services such as bin collections and adult social care.
Mayors of Croydon, Hackney, Lewisham, Newham and Tower Hamlets will also be elected at the same time.
As it stands, Labour currently run 21 London councils, the Conservatives control five, the Lib Dems hold three and two councils are in no overall control.
Not able to vote in person?
Thursday 7 May 2026 07:59 , Megan HoweIf you’re not able to vote in person, emergency proxy voting is still available.
This is essentially where you can ask someone else - a proxy - to vote on your behalf.
You can apply for an emergency proxy vote up until 5pm today.
But both you and your proxy must already be registered to vote.
What's at stake for the Labour party in the May local elections?
Thursday 7 May 2026 07:52 , Megan HoweFor Sir Keir Starmer, Friday, May 8, is threatening to be a day of reckoning if, as expected, Labour suffers heavy losses across Britain.
The results of Thursday’s local elections in England, for the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly will come in over several days.
But by Friday afternoon it should be clear whether Labour is staring at an electoral bruising, a nightmare, a catastrophe or political Armageddon.
Read Standard Chief Reporter Nic Cecil’s full breakdown of the political lay of the land:
Local elections: What's at stake for Starmer, Labour and London?
How do I vote and what do I need to take with me?
Thursday 7 May 2026 07:47 , Megan HoweIf you’re voting for the first time, or you’re unsure how to cast your ballot in this election, don’t worry.
The process is straightforward, but there are a few important things you should know beforehand.
First you need to be registered to vote. The deadline for this election has passed, but you can check if you’re registered to vote here.
If you’re in Scotland or Wales, you do not need ID to vote in person, but everyone voting in England does.
More than 20 forms of ID are accepted, these include:
• Passport
• Driving licence or provisional
• A Blue Badge
• Oyster 60+ cards
• Identity card
Out of date forms of ID are excepted so long as the photograph still looks like you.
Polls open as voters across the UK head to the ballot box
Thursday 7 May 2026 07:28 , Megan HowePolls have opened across London, England and Scotland, as voters head to the ballot box in a crucial round of local elections.
All 32 London boroughs are up for grabs, with 1,817 council seats up for election.
Voters in Croydon, Hackney, Lewisham, Newham and Tower Hamlets will also choose their directly elected mayors.
A key thing to note is that this is not a general election, so seats in Westminster will go unchanged.
Polling stations opened at 7am and will remain open until 10pm. Anyone in the queue before 10pm will still be allowed to vote.
Residents can use the Electoral Commission’s polling station lookup tool to find their local polling station and view the candidates standing in their area.
Labour faces pressure from the Green Party in parts of inner London, while Reform UK and independent candidates could make gains in several outer-London boroughs.
Vote counting will begin once polls close tonight, with most results expected between the early hours of Friday morning and Saturday afternoon.
