Starting gun fired for May’s local elections
31/03/2026
All three of the main group leaders at Cherwell must defend their seats
The starting gun has been fired for this year’s local elections, with Cherwell District Council publishing a notice of election.
Voters will get to choose who represents them for one third of the seats at the authority, with eighteen seats available, including two where a by-election must take place due to a councillor resigning.
Liberal Democrat Council Leader David Hingley is one of those who must defend his position in Adderbury, Bloxham & Bodicote.
The two other main group leaders must also seek public approval with Labour’s Andrew Crichton due to defend his Banbury Hardwick seat and Conservative Eddie Reeves doing the same in Deddington.
Ahead of the last local election for Cherwell District Council in 2024 the Conservatives controlled the authority through a minority administration, holding 20 of the 48 seats. Back then they were punished at the ballot box, losing 9 councillors. The Liberal Democrat’s gained 7 and joined up with the Greens and Independents to run the council.
Having had two years in charge the vote this May will be the first public test of their performance.
Ahead of that anyone needing to register to vote must do so by Monday April 20. Those who are already registered at their current address do not need to re-register.
Anyone looking for an alternative to voting in person can apply for a postal or proxy vote instead.
Gordon Stewart, Returning Officer, said: “District elections form a crucial part of local democracy, putting residents’ voices at the forefront of key public services like housing, waste collection and planning. It is a chance to have your say, and we encourage everyone eligible to take their opportunity to vote.
“I’d like to remind voters to bring their photo ID to the polling station in line with the government requirements. A number of forms of ID are accepted, including a driving licence, passport and some bus passes. Those who do not have an eligible form of ID can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate before the deadline of Tuesday, 28 April.
“If you’re not registered to vote, you won’t be able to have your say on polling day. If you’ve recently moved home, turned 18 or changed your name, register to vote by Monday 20 April.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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