Reform UK seizes control of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council

Reform UK has taken control of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, securing 27 seats in the election held on 7th May 2026.

The party, which needed 23 seats for a majority, has effectively displaced the Conservatives who now hold 15, while Labour and the Labour & Co-operative Party managed only two.

The shift marks a significant change from the previous council's composition, where the Conservatives had a majority after winning the all-out election of May 2022.

The voter turnout for this election was 47.8 per cent, notably higher than the 43.01 per cent observed in 2022.

As votes were counted overnight at Keele University sports centre, the results campaign reflected Reform UK's growing influence in the region.

Martin Rogerson, Reform UK branch chairman for Newcastle-under-Lyme, expressed gratitude to the voters and those involved in the election process.

"We are delighted and humbled that people have placed their trust in us and I promise that we will get to work straightaway delivering local services.”

The election saw 165 candidates competing across 21 wards. The number of councillors returned from each ward varied depending on their size.

Gordon Mole, Chief Executive of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council and the Returning Officer for the election, highlighted the council’s responsibilities and acknowledged the candidates' dedication to the democratic process.

Reform UK's victory marks a pivotal moment for the council, promising new directions in local governance and policy-making.

For those interested in the detailed breakdown of the election results, a full report is available.

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